uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party leader Jacob Zuma has announced that the party will stop using the title “commander,” replacing it with the more egalitarian term “comrade.”
Speaking at a recent party meeting, Zuma explained that “commander” carries military connotations that don’t fit the party’s current political direction.
“The word ‘commander’ suggests hierarchy, not equality,” Zuma said. “In the military, a commander gives orders, and others must follow. But we are a democratic movement—we should speak to each other as equals.”
The shift signals an effort to create a more collective leadership style within the party. Zuma confirmed that an official announcement will soon be made formalizing “comrade” as the standard way members address one another.
“Do you know what ‘commander’ means? ‘Commander’ implies a hierarchy, not equality. It’s a serious military term. A commander gives orders, and when they speak, others listen” MK Party President Jacob Zuma
“We can’t all be commanders; that’s a problem. Luckily, in the MK Party,… pic.twitter.com/8PpI7xFlJf
— News Live SA (@newslivesa) August 7, 2025
“We can’t all be commanders—that doesn’t make sense,” Zuma added. “That’s why we’re changing this in the MK Party.”
The move appears aimed at softening the party’s image as it positions itself ahead of future elections. Analysts say dropping military-style titles could also ease internal tensions over rank and authority.
While the change may seem small, language holds deep meaning in the MK Party, which traces its roots to the ANC’s former armed wing. The shift reflects an attempt to balance its liberation history with a modern political identity.
