he African National Congress (ANC) in northern KwaZulu-Natal has suffered another blow after PR Councillor Sizakele Hoffman resigned and joined the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, further fracturing the party’s support in the region.
Hoffman, who served as a Proportional Representation councillor in the Nquthu Local Municipality, formally stepped down this week, citing disillusionment with the ANC’s leadership and failure to deliver meaningful change. In a scathing resignation statement, she accused the party of neglecting communities struggling with unemployment, poor infrastructure, and weak governance.
“The ANC no longer represents the people—it is a party of empty promises,” Hoffman said. “The MK Party offers a new path built on accountability, integrity, and real service delivery.”
Her defection comes as the MK Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, gains traction in KwaZulu-Natal, capitalising on growing dissatisfaction with the ANC. The party welcomed Hoffman, praising her grassroots influence in the Umzinyathi District and hinting at her role in strengthening its structures ahead of upcoming elections.
NEWS: A councillor of the ANC in Nquthu in northern KwaZulu-Natal has dumped the former governing party.
Sizakele Hoffman has also resigned as a PR Councillor of the party.
She has since joined the MK Party – The News Box pic.twitter.com/QFBxMuRoWx
— Sihle Mavuso (@ZANewsFlash) July 18, 2025
MK Party Sees Opportunity
MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlela hailed Hoffman’s move as a sign of shifting political tides. “Councillor Hoffman’s principled stand reflects what many in the ANC are realizing—the party has lost touch with its base,” he said. “We expect more leaders to follow her example.”
The ANC has yet to issue an official response, but insiders admit the resignation has sparked internal concerns, particularly in Nquthu, where coalition dynamics remain fragile. Hoffman’s departure could trigger further defections, weakening the ANC’s grip in a province already facing fierce competition from the MK Party and the IFP.
Political Repercussions
Analysts suggest Hoffman’s switch could embolden other disgruntled ANC councillors to reconsider their loyalties, especially as the MK Party positions itself as a viable alternative for disillusioned members. With by-elections looming, her move may signal a broader realignment in KZN’s political landscape.
“As more leaders defect, the ANC’s dominance in former strongholds becomes increasingly uncertain,” said political analyst Thabiso Mkhize. “The MK Party is exploiting this discontent, and the ripple effects could reshape local governance.”
With tensions rising and alliances shifting, KwaZulu-Natal’s political future hangs in the balance—and Hoffman’s exit may be just the beginning.
