Umkhonto Wesizwe Party Member of Parliament Mzwanele Manyi has downplayed the recent defections of senior party members, insisting the movement remains on a strong growth trajectory ahead of upcoming political battles.
Speaking on Saturday, Manyi described the departures as “a handful” that would not shake the party’s foundations or dent its momentum. He emphasised that the MK Party had tapped into a groundswell of support across the country and was continuing to expand despite persistent criticism.
“MK Party, the movement whose time has come. Despite the vilification, and defections by a handful, the MK Party is growing from strength to strength,” said Manyi. “There’s no hall in South Africa that can house MK Party. This movement is just too huge.”
MK Party, the movement whose time has come.
Despite the vilification, and defections by a handful, the MK Party is growing from strength to strength.
There's no hall in South Africa that can house MK Party. This movement is just too huge. pic.twitter.com/iT8nyEaoCA— Mzwanele Manyi MP (@MzwaneleManyi) August 23, 2025
His remarks come after reports that some senior figures resigned from the party, sparking questions about internal divisions and the party’s ability to maintain unity. Critics have argued that the cracks may weaken MK’s performance in Parliament and on the ground.
However, Manyi dismissed such concerns, suggesting that the movement’s popularity is rooted in a broader national frustration with existing political parties. He said South Africans were increasingly rallying behind the MK Party’s vision, particularly under the leadership of former president Jacob Zuma, who remains its most prominent figure.
Political analysts remain divided on the party’s prospects. Some believe the defections signal deeper organisational challenges, while others argue that the MK Party’s brand—closely tied to Zuma’s legacy—continues to attract a loyal following, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal.
For now, Manyi is confident that the momentum is firmly on their side. “The movement is unstoppable,” he concluded.