The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party faces fresh turmoil after Deputy President Dr. John Hlophe publicly confirmed the authenticity of a letter removing Nhlamulo Ndhlela as national spokesperson – directly contradicting Ndhlela’s claims that the document was forged.
The confirmation exposes deepening divisions within the party’s leadership, coming just weeks after MK’s entry into Parliament. Hlophe stated the removal followed proper procedures, telling media: “This was an official decision by the leadership, not some fabricated document as claimed.”
Ndhlela had earlier dismissed the letter as fake, alleging a plot to “hijack party communications.” His insistence that he remained in position now appears undermined by Hlophe’s verification of the dismissal.
WATCH: MK Party’s Parliamentary leader and Deputy President, Dr John Hlophe says the letter removing Nhlamulo Ndhlela is authentic. Ndhlela previously claimed that the signature on it was forged.
Hlophe also refuted claims that there is a petition to remove Colleen Makhubele as… pic.twitter.com/SO47STqERa— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) July 3, 2025
Political analyst Sipho Dlamini observes: “This public contradiction between senior leaders reveals dangerous factionalism. After an election where MK gained ground, they risk squandering momentum through internal battles.”
The dispute follows other recent leadership changes, including the removal of former secretary-general Floyd Shivambu and the appointment of new chief whip Colleen Makhubele. Sources suggest competing groups are wrestling for control of the party’s direction.
With neither side backing down, the credibility of MK’s leadership structures faces scrutiny. As the party prepares for local government elections, the unresolved conflict threatens to distract from its political agenda and erode voter confidence.
Ndhlela has yet to respond to Hlophe’s confirmation, while party president Jacob Zuma remains conspicuously silent on the latest leadership crisis. The coming days may determine whether MK can present a united front or will continue airing its divisions publicly.
