Zuma axes Hlophe, Nhleko as MK Party leadership shake-up deepens

Former president and MK Party leader Jacob Zuma has announced sweeping changes to the party’s leadership structure, removing first deputy president John Hlophe and national chairperson Nkosinathi Nhleko from their positions with immediate effect. The shake-up, announced by Zuma on Tuesday evening, also saw MK Party deputy secretary-general Nomsa Dlamini relieved of her responsibilities, while the former president’s son, Duduzane Zuma, was appointed the party’s new first deputy president. Former ATM KwaZulu-Natal MPL Rev.

Mxolisi Phakathi has been appointed national chairperson, while Lindiwe Mtshali takes over as deputy secretary-general. The MK Party said in a statement that the changes were aimed at strengthening the party and consolidating its organisational structures as it prepares for the challenges ahead. Hlophe, a former Western Cape judge president, will, however, retain his position as the MK Party’s parliamentary leader in the National Assembly.

Zuma expressed his gratitude to Hlophe for his contribution to the party, saying he appreciated his “leadership, dedication and invaluable contribution to the growth and strengthening of the MK Party”. Nhleko was similarly thanked for his “dedication, commitment and service” during his tenure as national chairperson. Zuma confirmed former ANC stalwart Tony Yengeni as the MK Party’s second deputy president, while former KwaZulu-Natal premier Willies Mchunu was appointed to the party’s presidency collective.

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Mchunu will retain his position as the MK Party’s KwaZulu-Natal provincial convenor. In another significant move, Zuma dissolved the recently announced Strategic Presidential Team (SPT).

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