DURBAN, KwaZulu-Natal — The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has reaffirmed its confidence in its prospects for the upcoming local government elections, maintaining a strong campaign presence in KwaZulu-Natal despite facing internal candidate disputes and health concerns surrounding its leader, Jacob Zuma.
Following a period where infighting and Zuma’s nearly 14-day hospitalization forced the cancellation of several major rallies, the party successfully staged a mini-campaign event just south of Durban over the weekend. The MKP burst onto the national political scene during the 2024 general elections, securing just over 14% of the national vote and achieving a commanding 45% majority in KwaZulu-Natal. However, the upcoming municipal polls will serve as the party’s first major test at the local government level.
Addressing concerns regarding Jacob Zuma’s public absence, an MKP spokesperson clarified that the party leader is recovering and undergoing necessary medical checkups. The spokesperson emphasized that while Zuma is taking it easy, he remains fully engaged in the party’s strategic direction. “He may be physically absent, but he is present in all decision-making capacity,” the representative assured supporters.
The party is also navigating internal controversies surrounding allegations that councillor candidates were improperly removed from the lists submitted to the electoral commission. An MKP spokesperson attributed these disruptions to deliberate sabotage, describing the MKP as a young organization under attack by opponents who wish to block their mission to eradicate poverty and deliver essential services. The party confirmed that it is transparently investigating the culprits and processing internal disciplinary measures against members who have brought the organization into disrepute.
Looking ahead to the campaigns, the MKP announced the addition of new members who recently defected from the ANC to join the party ahead of the local government elections.
During the weekend rally, the party identified water infrastructure as its most critical municipal focus. The spokesperson criticized the current reliance on water tankers, noting that residents are often forced to wait up to four or five days for water delivery. To resolve this, the party outlined a comprehensive plan to repair failing infrastructure and systematically fix water leaks on a ward-by-ward basis, ensuring reliable water access for all communities.
