The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leadership has described former President Jacob Zuma’s decision to dismiss Des van Rooyen as the party’s parliamentary chief whip less than 24 hours after his appointment as “painful but necessary.”
Van Rooyen was appointed to the position on Tuesday evening, replacing Colleen Makhubele. However, by Wednesday night, Zuma’s office released a statement overturning that decision, effectively removing van Rooyen from the role.
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For van Rooyen, it’s a case of history repeating itself. In December 2015, Zuma, then serving as South Africa’s president, appointed him as finance minister — a post he held for just three days before being replaced, earning him the unfortunate nickname of “weekend special minister.”
Painful But Necessary Decision, Says MK Party Leadership
MK Party’s head of presidency, Magasela Mzobe, revealed that Zuma’s decision was not made lightly, noting the personal respect and admiration the former president holds for van Rooyen.
“You can imagine how difficult it was for the president and the leadership because beside being a leader in the MK Party, comrade Des is a father, an uncle, a husband, brother and human being, so it was not easy to take this decision,” said Mzobe.
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He added that while the move was painful, it was crucial for the organisation’s integrity.
“But as a cadre of the movement, he will understand. When the organisation is confronted with a painful period like this unfortunately, he had to be a victim when he was responsible for not taking this decision. The party had to correct its processes.”
Hlophe Suspended Over Unauthorised Appointment
The party also announced the suspension of its deputy president and parliamentary leader, John Hlophe, for “ill-discipline.”
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According to the MK Party, Hlophe’s decision to dismiss Makhubele and appoint van Rooyen was made without proper consultation or approval from the party’s leadership.
The leadership said the suspension was part of its commitment to maintaining discipline and proper procedure within its ranks as it continues to solidify its parliamentary structures.
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