MK Party’s Dali Mpofu Acknowledges Defeat in Nelson Mandela Bay By-Election, Calls for ‘Bite by Bite’ Strategy
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has conceded defeat in a fiercely contested by-election in Nelson Mandela Bay, with its top official and legal heavyweight, Advocate Dali Mpofu, publicly acknowledging the party’s loss. The African National Congress (ANC) retained the ward, followed by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in second place. The MK Party secured third position with 16% of the vote.
Mpofu, a prominent supporter of former President Jacob Zuma and a key figure in the MK Party’s leadership, reacted to the outcome via social media. While recognising the defeat, he framed the results as a sign of growth and potential for the relatively new political movement.
“Good effort Comrades in a tough week and testing conditions… From 1% to 16% is super growth and well above the MK national average. 33% for the progressives! We must eat the elephant bite by bite especially in the Eastern Cape and Limpopo… Then we are done with these sellouts,” Mpofu wrote, signaling determination to build the party’s momentum across key provinces.
Despite its loss, the MK Party’s 16% share of the vote marks a significant improvement from its previous standing in the region. Analysts have noted that, while the result is not sufficient to challenge the dominance of the ANC or the growing support of the EFF, it signals a growing appetite among voters for alternative political voices.
The by-election was widely seen as a crucial test of the MK Party’s ability to penetrate traditional ANC strongholds like the Eastern Cape. The ANC’s victory, despite facing ongoing national criticism and internal divisions, underscores its entrenched support in the region. The EFF, meanwhile, continued to demonstrate electoral resilience, maintaining its position as a formidable opposition force.
Political commentators suggest that the MK Party’s challenge going forward will be to convert its growing visibility into tangible wins. “A 16% result is encouraging for a new party, but they need to build organisational strength and sustain momentum if they are to become serious contenders,” said one analyst.
As the MK Party regroups, Mpofu’s message of gradual growth — or the “bite by bite” approach — reflects a long-term strategy. However, to gain meaningful ground nationally, especially ahead of future elections, the party will need to convert such gains into electoral victories across multiple provinces.
