The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has reaffirmed that no member stands above its constitution, with disciplinary action to be taken against anyone who violates its principles. Party Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo made the remarks following the suspension of chief whip Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi after her arrest on fraud-related charges.
Speaking after the party’s national officials meeting, Nomvalo explained that the MKP constitution requires both substantive and procedural fairness in disciplinary matters. When an offense warrants suspension, the individual must first receive formal notice before disciplinary processes commence, with the final determination resting on the outcome of those proceedings.
In Mokoena-Zondi’s case, the party initially removed her from her position as chief whip in the National Assembly while retaining her status as a member of parliament. Subsequent constitutional contraventions brought to leadership’s attention necessitated internal disciplinary processes, leading to the suspension of her party membership pending the conclusion of those proceedings.
Nomvalo confirmed that the party outsources disciplinary functions, appointing external legal professionals to serve as prosecutor and presiding officer for such cases.
The Secretary-General also clarified that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla holds no elected or appointed national leadership position within the organization and remains an ordinary member. This clarification followed an instruction from party President Jacob Zuma to remove her from all party responsibilities. Nomvalo emphasized that Zuma has consistently maintained the MKP is “a party of the people for the people of South Africa,” not a family institution. He noted that organizational structures regularly make decisions independently, sometimes without the president’s direct input, to counter narratives portraying the party as a “family business.”
Regarding ongoing protests concerning undocumented migrants, Nomvalo stated the party supports the cause against illegal immigration. “When you say undocumented, you mean these people are here illegally. So what does that mean? It means they’ve broken the law,” he said. He cited the impact of illegal immigration on crime levels in townships and cities, noting that some areas have become difficult for South Africans to access due to criminal activity. Nomvalo added that individuals in the country legitimately should register with Home Affairs to remain traceable, and that sympathy should extend to those combating criminality rather than to those who break immigration laws. He clarified that while protesters may conduct legal marches, responsibility for managing any violence rests with police.
The MKP has invited the March and March movement to join its upcoming demonstration scheduled for June 10, focused on service delivery and anti-corruption efforts.
On foreign policy, the party endorsed Iran’s call for peace in Gaza and urged Israel to cease hostilities. Nomvalo also called for peace in Sudan and Cabo Delgado in northern Mozambique, urging the African Union peace mission to prioritize the latter region.
When questioned about the absence of Western Sahara from the party’s recent statements, Nomvalo explained that the MKP encourages diplomatic means of resolving conflicts and opposes those sponsored by Western powers. He referenced the party’s support for Palestine, including South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice, while emphasizing the need for broader international mobilization against injustice. Nomvalo characterized President Zuma’s recent visit to Morocco as part of diplomatic peace efforts, noting that meaningful dialogue requires engagement with all parties involved in a conflict.
