Former president Jacob Zuma was the main attraction at an exclusive MK Party gala dinner in Durban, in what insiders described as a strategic display of unity and power for the party.
The event, organized by a faction calling itself “Do or Die,” followed a youth golf development program hosted by the party earlier in the day. Zuma arrived with the party’s top leadership, including deputies, national officials, and members of parliament.
While publicly framed as a celebration of youth empowerment through sports, the gathering was seen by many as an effort to solidify Zuma’s influence and manage internal tensions, particularly within the party’s KwaZulu-Natal structures.
A senior party member, who asked to remain anonymous, stated the faction used the dinner to reinforce its loyalty to Zuma’s original vision and counter rival groups that threaten the party’s support base.
The MK Party’s youth golf initiative aims to introduce the sport to underprivileged communities and attract private sponsors. However, critics argue such events primarily serve as networking opportunities for elites while many party members face economic struggles.
Zuma’s prominent presence, despite his ongoing legal challenges, sent a strong message that he remains the central figure guiding the party’s direction. His speech focused on unity and discipline, receiving a standing ovation.
With local elections approaching, the event’s show of solidarity faces a real test as the party must prove it can translate glamorous gatherings into tangible results for its supporters.
Last night, H.E. President Zuma, the Deputy President, National Officials, the KZN Provincial Convenor, Members of Parliament and Provincial Legislature, the MKYL President and the MKSM SG attended a Gala Dinner hosted by the “Do or Die” leadership after the successful uMkhonto… pic.twitter.com/vhhIEQ7q0k
— uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) July 12, 2025