Protests broke out outside former President Jacob Zuma’s Nkandla residence following the suspension of three senior MK party members accused of constitutional violations and irregular activities. The suspended members, Thobani Zuma, Sfiso Zuma, and Chief Whip Kwazi Mbanjwa, face allegations of misconduct, including defiance of party directives and mismanagement of funds.
The disciplinary hearing, conducted on Wednesday by Jacob Zuma and the MK party’s national high command, concluded with significant actions against the accused. Chief Whip Kwazi Mbanjwa was removed from his role and suspended from the KwaZulu-Natal provincial legislature, while Thobani Zuma was also suspended from the same body. Sfiso Zuma received a cautionary suspension as caucus manager.
The protests were sparked by the disciplinary measures, with party supporters gathering outside Jacob Zuma’s residence in a tense display of dissent. Duduzane Zuma, Jacob Zuma’s son, voiced his frustration over the protests, demanding strict consequences for those involved. Posting on social media, he warned, “There must be harsh consequences for those protesting outside my father’s house. We know the instigators, and we will not tolerate indiscipline.”
At the center of the conflict are allegations that the suspended members failed to comply with a directive to transfer MK party bank accounts to provincial convener Willies Mchunu, Treasurer-General Dr. Thanti Mthanti, and party leader Inkosi Chiliza by December 4, 2024. The members are also accused of unconstitutionally contacting the KwaZulu-Natal legislature and leaking confidential party information without authorization.
MK party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela confirmed the suspensions, emphasizing the party’s commitment to internal discipline. “The MK party will not tolerate noncompliance or breaches of internal policies. Firm action will be taken against anyone who disregards party directives,” Ndhlela stated.
The incident has underscored tensions within the MK party, highlighting divisions over leadership and governance. While the suspended members await further disciplinary proceedings, the party faces mounting pressure to resolve internal disputes and restore unity in its ranks.