The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has issued a bold ultimatum to President Cyril Ramaphosa: resign by 9am on Mandela Day, 18 July, or face a wave of consequences.
This demand follows growing discontent over the state of South Africa’s security cluster, particularly after recent events have cast doubt on the stability and leadership of the current government.
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On Wednesday morning, MK party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela confirmed the deadline in a formal statement, saying, “The MK party has formally delivered a letter of demand to Cyril Ramaphosa, calling on him to resign from office by 9am on 18 July in honour of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the founding Commander-in-Chief of uMkhonto weSizwe.”
Mandela Day, celebrated annually on 18 July, is symbolic for the MK party, which views Ramaphosa’s leadership as a threat to the democratic ideals Mandela stood for.
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“Lawful and Peaceful Actions” Planned if Demands Are Ignored
Should Ramaphosa fail to comply, the MK party has outlined several non-violent measures it intends to take. These include launching a motion of no confidence, organising nationwide mass action, and initiating constitutional litigation.
Ndhlela emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing recent claims made by KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi. According to Ndhlela, these claims “exposed the shortcomings of the government of national unity (GNU).”
He added, “The MK Party calls on Cyril Ramaphosa and the GNU to respect the voice of the people before irreparable damage is done to South Africa’s democratic institutions.”
Security Concerns Add Fuel to Political Tensions
The ultimatum comes amid heightened national security concerns. Since Sunday, President Ramaphosa has reshuffled leadership within the police ministry, placing Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on special leave and appointing two acting ministers in quick succession.
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First, Firoz Cachalia was named acting police minister, followed by the appointment of Minister of Mineral Resources Gwede Mantashe, who will serve in the role temporarily until Cachalia officially takes office in two weeks.
Adding to the volatility, Minister in The Presidency Khubudzo Ntshavheni issued a stark warning on Tuesday about threats detected by the State Security Agency (SSA). “There is a potential risk of a coup d’état. We have identified it and put measures in place to mitigate against it,” Ntshavheni stated.
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