The Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party has secured its first official ward victory from the Democratic Alliance (DA) in a significant political shift in KwaZulu-Natal. MK Party Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu announced the win in Ward 110, eThekwini—a region once firmly under African National Congress (ANC) control before the DA’s recent hold.
“This marks MK Party’s first ward taken directly from the DA. Congratulations to Councillor Biyela,” Shivambu stated Wednesday evening. The triumph represents a major step for the party, founded by former President Jacob Zuma, as it expands its influence in the province.
uMKhonto weSizwe won Ward 110 in eThekwini. It’s the first Ward we win from the DA. #GwazaMkhontoGwaza! Well done Councillor Biyela. pic.twitter.com/gCu5bfp3GF
— Floyd Shivambu (@FloydShivambu) April 17, 2025
Political analysts attribute the MK Party’s success to robust grassroots campaigning, Zuma’s enduring appeal in KZN, and growing dissatisfaction with established parties. The party’s call to “revive revolutionary values” has particularly connected with former ANC loyalists and youth voters frustrated with service delivery failures and unemployment.
Ward 110 spans northern eThekwini suburbs and townships where housing shortages and economic struggles dominate voter concerns. Newly elected Councillor Biyela ran on a platform of community-driven leadership, pledging to prioritize residents’ needs over party politics.
The DA conceded defeat but vowed to continue serving constituents, while the ANC remained silent—though sources describe growing unease as the party loses further ground. With local elections approaching, MK’s breakthrough signals its potential to disrupt South Africa’s political landscape beyond traditional strongholds.
