Tensions have erupted between former President Jacob Zuma and the leadership of the African Apostolic Alliance Movement (AAAM), with accusations that Zuma exploited their support to bolster the MK Party (MKP) before the 2024 elections, only to abandon them once their usefulness expired. The fallout stems from AAAM’s crucial backing, which reportedly helped Zuma attract millions of voters but left AAAM leaders feeling betrayed.
AAAM Secretary-General Bishop Meshack Tebe issued a scathing five-page media statement expressing his frustrations. He accused Zuma of sidelining him and AAAM President Archbishop Senate Tsekedi after their contributions to the MKP’s establishment. The pair were not only denied parliamentary positions but were also unceremoniously removed from the MKP leadership via a WhatsApp message. Tebe described the expulsion notices—dispatched on June 4, 2024, but backdated to May 28, 2024—as “unfortunate and diabolical.”
Tebe revealed that multiple attempts to contact Zuma for clarification were ignored, deepening the sense of abandonment. Further aggravating the situation, several AAAM members were reportedly expelled from the MKP, resulting in their removal from national and provincial legislatures.
“We were taken advantage of,” Tebe lamented. “After all our efforts, we were rejected when it mattered most. This is wrong, especially considering the original clauses in the MK Party constitution.”
The fallout marks a sharp turn in what was initially seen as a strong alliance. AAAM played a pivotal role in launching the MKP on December 16, 2023. Their support included orchestrating Zuma’s introduction to the party and facilitating his rise as its leader, announced publicly during a January 5, 2024, press conference. The revelation of Zuma’s involvement with the MKP took many by surprise, including senior ANC officials.
Initially, Zuma denied his affiliation with the MKP but was later formally unveiled as its representative by AAAM leaders. However, the subsequent fallout suggests that AAAM officials believe they were used for their influence, only to be sidelined after Zuma achieved his political objectives.
This conflict has sparked broader questions about Zuma’s leadership and the MKP’s internal dynamics as the party faces increasing scrutiny. The rift underscores the challenges of forming new political movements and maintaining unity among diverse groups with competing interests.