Prominent MK Party supporter and political commentator Nathi Sithole has pledged unwavering support for former President Jacob Zuma following reports of his alleged expulsion from the MK Party. In a passionate statement delivered on Thursday in Durban, Sithole denounced the decision as a gross injustice and vowed to support Zuma in pursuing legal recourse.
“This is not just an attack on President Zuma; it is an attack on the very principles of fairness and democracy that our movement stands for,” said Sithole. “We must take this to court. This is an unfair expulsion, and we shall stand with President Zuma when he takes these thugs to court.”
The controversy stems from claims that Zuma has been expelled due to internal disagreements and criticisms of the party’s leadership. While the MK Party has not officially confirmed the expulsion, reports suggest the decision was influenced by factional battles. Insiders allege that Zuma’s outspoken critiques of the current leadership played a role in the fallout.
Sithole, along with other Zuma loyalists, has called the alleged expulsion undemocratic, arguing that it contradicts the MK Party’s historical commitment to unity and its alignment with Zuma’s vision for South Africa. He accused certain individuals within the party of pursuing personal vendettas, stating, “The expulsion process was neither transparent nor democratic. These actions undermine the credibility of the party and its mission to serve the people of South Africa.”
Although Zuma has not commented publicly on the matter, sources close to him indicate that he plans to challenge the expulsion and expose what he perceives as a calculated effort to marginalize him.
The announcement has sparked diverse reactions within South African politics. While some see the alleged expulsion as necessary to stabilize the MK Party, others consider it an attack on one of its founding figures. Political analysts caution that a protracted legal battle could exacerbate internal divisions, potentially threatening the cohesion of the nascent party.
Sithole called for unity among Zuma supporters, urging MK Party members to rally behind the former president. “This is not just his fight; it is ours,” Sithole declared, emphasizing that the legal battle could define the future of the party and its principles.
As the situation develops, the MK Party has yet to issue an official statement addressing the expulsion or Sithole’s remarks. The looming legal proceedings are expected to garner significant public attention, marking yet another contentious chapter in Jacob Zuma’s political career.