The MK Party’s internal tensions have burst into the open after the party’s deputy president, Dr Mandlakayise (John) Hlophe, wrote a scathing letter to former president Jacob Zuma accusing his daughter Duduzile Sambudla-Zuma and party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela of creating chaos within the parliamentary caucus.
In the letter dated June 26, Hlophe details repeated disruptions during caucus meetings, alleging that Ndhlela hurled insults at newly appointed chief whip Colleen Makhubele and refused to accept his removal from the whippery. Sambudla-Zuma, according to Hlophe, caused “unnecessary chaos” by repeatedly interrupting meetings and disregarding leadership authority.
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“Commander Ndhlela has consistently insulted the chief whip, in some instance labelling her a ‘political novice and newcomer’ to the political landscape,” wrote Hlophe. “His actions reflect a deliberate attempt to usurp the authority of the chief whip and disrupt the unity of the caucus.”
MK Leadership Crisis Deepens as Letters Fly and Allegiances Shift
The letter follows growing calls for Makhubele to step down from her role as chief whip barely a month after being appointed, with critics accusing her of poor leadership. Hlophe, however, has defended her position and condemned attempts to undermine her authority.
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During a recent whippery team meeting, Sambudla-Zuma allegedly interrupted proceedings, disregarded instructions to wait her turn, and challenged the leadership. Hlophe claimed that despite his intervention, she continued to act disruptively.
“She noisily rose from her seat, grabbed her belongings, and exclaimed, ‘Are we not done?’ before sitting down when she realised no one had followed her,” said Hlophe.
He warned that the conduct of Sambudla-Zuma and Ndhlela was in breach of the party’s constitution and code of conduct, calling on Zuma to urgently intervene.
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“These challenges require immediate intervention to restore unity, efficiency and adherence to the revolutionary ethos of the MK Party,” wrote Hlophe. “I remain committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to advance the MK Party’s transformative agenda.”
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Ndhlela Responds as Factional Battles Threaten Party Stability
Responding to the letter, Ndhlela told SurgeZirc SA that he only saw the communication circulating on social media. When he questioned Hlophe about it, the deputy president allegedly distanced himself, saying “his signature has been abused.”
The turmoil comes amid ongoing infighting within the MK Party, which has seen rapid turnover in key positions since its formation in December 2023. The party has already cycled through six secretary-generals. Most recently, Mzwanele Manyi was removed as chief whip in parliament and replaced by Makhubele.
Now, Makhubele herself is under fire. A letter circulating in the name of the MK Party caucus accuses her of autocratic leadership and failing to consult members.
“Makhubele’s conduct has alienated members, eroded trust, and compromised the integrity of our caucus,” the letter reads.
When approached for comment, Ndhlela declined to engage further, saying:
“I saw it for the first time when I received it from a journalist, unfortunately I can’t comment on caucus matters.”
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