The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has announced that President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma has ordered a formal investigation into allegations of manipulation involving councillor candidate lists. In the same statement, the party confirmed the immediate disbanding of the Presidential Task Team and the removal of two senior officials.
Investigation into candidate list allegations
The party said it had taken note of “grave and deeply disturbing allegations” arising from the recent councillor selection process. These include claims that legitimate, duly nominated candidates were removed from the lists submitted to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) and replaced with other names.
President Zuma regards the allegations with the utmost seriousness. The statement noted that such reports “strike at the very heart of the integrity of our organisation and the democratic will of our structures and membership.” The party emphasised that there is “no place for manipulation, political gatekeeping or the abuse of organisational processes.”
An internal investigation has been launched to establish the full facts. Where wrongdoing is confirmed, appropriate action will be taken in line with the organisation's rules and procedures. The President also praised members who raised the concerns.
Leadership changes
Pending the outcome of the investigation, President Zuma has removed Cde Zandile Hlophe-Mkhwanazi and Cde Sibonelo Maphumulo from the National Party Liaison Committee (NPLC) with immediate effect. He has also disbanded the Presidential Task Team with immediate effect.
New mayoral candidate for eThekwini
In the same announcement, President Zuma designated Apostle Mxolisi Phakathi as the MK Party's mayoral candidate for the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality. The President and national officials congratulated him and wished him strength and success in the role.
Call for unity ahead of local elections
The party apologised to its business centres and affected structures for the uncertainty and disruption caused by these developments. President Zuma called on all members and structures to put the challenges behind them, unite behind the party's candidates, and work towards a decisive victory in the Local Government Elections on 4 November 2026.