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MK Party Demands Ramaphosa Resign by Mandela Day or Face Political Showdown

Published

2 months ago

July 16, 2025

Chiraag

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There is a growing political urgency in Pretoria as the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has delivered a formal ultimatum to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The party demands that he resign by 9 a.m. on 18 July 2025, Mandela Day. Should the president fail to step down by this deadline, the MK Party has pledged a motion of no confidence in Parliament, nationwide mass action, and constitutional legal challenges.

The Ultimatum and Context

MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela confirmed that the ultimatum was sent via a formal letter to the ruling party’s headquarters, Luthuli House, earlier this week. The demand is tied to Mandela Day, a symbolic date honouring Nelson Mandela, the legendary ANC stalwart and founder of the original uMkhonto weSizwe movement.

The MK Party argues that President Ramaphosa has diverged from Mandela’s vision of democratic governance and claims that recent political decisions are threatening South Africa’s constitutional and institutional stability.

Breakdown in the Security Cluster

The ultimatum follows mounting tensions within the country’s security cluster, particularly the leadership of the South African Police Service (SAPS). On Sunday, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu was placed on special leave. President Ramaphosa then appointed Wits law professor Firoz Cachalia as acting minister, with Gwede Mantashe temporarily taking over until Cachalia assumes the role officially.

The MK Party has criticised these appointments as unconstitutional, citing Sections 93 and 98 of the Constitution, and says it is pursuing legal advice to challenge them in court.

Further fuelling concerns, the MK Party referenced public warnings issued by the State Security Agency (SSA), with Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni confirming that there was a “potential risk of a coup d’état.” This adds to a wider narrative that the national security apparatus is under strain.

Public and Political Reactions

On social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, reactions have been mixed. Some users have welcomed the MK Party’s move as long overdue, while others fear it may push the country closer to political instability.

Political analysts have noted that the ultimatum taps into growing public frustration over governance failures and a perception of chaos within the security ministries. The MK Party’s assertiveness is being viewed as both a strategic gamble and a sign of shifting political dynamics within the opposition space.

Mandela Day’s Significance

Mandela Day is usually a time to reflect on service, unity, and the democratic values that shaped post-apartheid South Africa. This year, however, the date has become a political flashpoint.

By tying their resignation demand to Mandela Day, the MK Party is invoking the legacy of uTata in a move that draws attention to what it sees as a disconnect between Mandela’s ideals and the current government’s direction.

What Lies Ahead for South Africa

As the clock ticks towards 18 July, uncertainty looms. If Ramaphosa refuses to resign, the MK Party is expected to follow through on its threats, including introducing a motion of no confidence, launching nationwide protests, and initiating court action.

Depending on the outcome, Mandela Day 2025 could become a defining political moment, either reinforcing the president’s authority or escalating tensions within an already fragile government of national unity.

The MK Party’s claims regarding constitutional violations and the legality of interim ministerial appointments are presented as party positions and not confirmed legal rulings.
The coup warning from the State Security Agency was publicly stated by Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni but remains a general risk advisory rather than a confirmed threat.
All factual claims have been attributed to their original sources to maintain transparency and editorial integrity.
This article is current and verified as of Wednesday, 16 July 2025, 2:42 PM SAST.