MK Party suspends Deputy President John Hlophe

Zuko Komisa

Image | @umkhonto_wesizwe_official/instagram

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) suspended its Deputy President, Dr John Hlophe, pending an investigation into his conduct.
Hlophe’s immediate precautionary suspension effectively nullifies the party’s recent appointment of Des Van Rooyen as parliamentary Chief Whip.
The action followed reports that leadership changes were made without the collective consultation of national officials, prompting a move to affirm party discipline.

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has issued a precautionary suspension to its Deputy President and parliamentary caucus leader, Dr John Hlophe, effective immediately, pending an investigation into his conduct.

The decision effectively nullifies the appointment of Des Van Rooyen as the party’s parliamentary Chief Whip. Van Rooyen’s promotion to replace Collen Makhubele was announced only a day earlier on Wednesday.

MKP President Jacob Zuma, returning from Burkina Faso, met with national officials and was briefed on the parliamentary leadership changes that were reportedly enacted “without a collective consultation.”

MKP Head of Presidency, Magasela Mzobe, stated that Hlophe’s suspension is intended to “affirm and send a strong message” regarding the crucial principle of collective leadership across all party structures.

Mzobe assured members and the public that the party’s leadership remains “firmly united and committed” to its principles, viewing the action as a demonstration of the party’s “unwavering commitment to internal party discipline.”

The MKP maintains that the organisation remains stable and focused on its mission for transformation.