The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has removed Comrade Sibonelo Nomvalo from his position as Secretary-General and appointed Lindiwe Mtshali as Acting Secretary-General, with the changes taking effect on Thursday, 22 October 2026.
The announcement was made by the Office of the President in a media statement outlining concerns about the party’s internal administration, leadership coordination and decision-making processes.
According to the statement, the leadership changes follow a series of concerns involving the management of the party’s internal affairs and the handling of key organisational responsibilities.
Among the issues raised were concerns about the councillor selection process, alleged factionalism within the party and questions surrounding dual remuneration. The statement also highlighted delays in the distribution of campaign materials, which could affect preparations for upcoming political activities.
The Office of the President further raised concerns about changes within the party’s parliamentary caucus and administration that were reportedly made without being communicated to the President and other relevant leadership structures.
Another issue highlighted in the statement involved the alleged establishment of high-level deployment committees without the knowledge of the appropriate party leadership structures.
These concerns appear to centre on communication, accountability and the coordination of decisions within the party’s leadership. However, the details provided in the statement do not establish whether Nomvalo has publicly responded to the allegations or offered his account of the circumstances surrounding his removal.
The appointment of Mtshali as Acting Secretary-General places her in the position of overseeing the party’s secretariat during a period of organisational changes.
The Secretary-General’s office plays an important role in managing party administration, coordinating internal structures and supporting communication between leadership bodies. The position is also central to ensuring that organisational decisions and political activities are implemented in accordance with the party’s procedures.
The leadership change comes as political parties prepare for the next phase of campaigning and organisational activities ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
For the MK Party, addressing concerns surrounding internal coordination and administrative processes could be important as it works to organise its structures and manage candidate-selection procedures.
The appointment of an acting secretary-general also raises questions about the party’s next steps, including whether Mtshali will remain in the position permanently or whether a substantive appointment will be announced later.
For now, the immediate focus will be on how the party manages the transition and responds to the concerns outlined by the Office of the President.
Further clarification from the party could provide more information about the circumstances surrounding Nomvalo’s removal, the responsibilities assigned to Mtshali and any additional changes expected within the organisation.
