MK Party suspends Nhlamulo Ndhlela on Jacob Zuma’s orders

Who, what and why

Nhlamulo Ndhlela has been suspended from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party with immediate effect on the orders of President Jacob Zuma, pending an internal investigation.

The party’s national chairperson, Nkosinathi Nhleko, confirmed the suspension in a letter to Ndhlela. The letter said the decision was taken “today” and that the suspension will remain in effect until the investigation concludes and a final determination is made.

Actions taken by the party

The MK Party removed Ndhlela as its spokesperson and as a member of parliament, and he was ordered to return all party property. The letter instructed him to surrender “all party property, materials, account details, passwords, access credentials, documents, devices, and any other information or resources belonging to or associated with the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.”

The party also notified its Chief Whip, Mmabatho Mokoena Zondi, that the suspension had been forwarded to her.

Allegations and party rationale

Nhleko said Ndhlela was suspended for “serious” allegations that include misconduct, sowing division within the organisation, and conduct that has brought the party into disrepute. The MK Party stated it remains committed to “organisational discipline, unity, accountability, and the protection of the integrity of the movement.”

Immediate replacement and context

Ndhlela was replaced as spokesperson with immediate effect by former Star editor Sifiso Mahlangu, described by the party as an academic and former news editor expected to bring stability and credibility to the party’s messaging.

The suspension follows a recent statement Ndhlela read that suggested a newly formed MK Institute would assume control over the party’s leadership structures. That announcement, delivered in the presence of senior officials, said the institute would “assume full responsibility for the political management and administration of the organisation” and that “all leadership structures of the party are now being subjected to and report to the institute.”

What this means for readers in Johannesburg

For Johannesburg readers, the suspension signals a significant internal shake-up inside the MK Party as it navigates leadership changes and scrutiny. The party has launched an investigation and frozen Ndhlela’s party roles and access while that process continues.

Key facts

• Decision-maker: President Jacob Zuma
• Confirmed by: Nkosinathi Nhleko (MK Party national chairperson)
• Actions: Suspension from party membership, removal as spokesperson and MP, order to return party assets
• New spokesperson: Sifiso Mahlangu
• Reasons cited: Allegations of misconduct, sowing division, and conduct bringing the party into disrepute