Durban – The MK party has suspended its chief whip, Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi, with immediate effect pending an internal investigation into corruption allegations.
The suspension follows Mokoena-Zondi’s arrest and court appearance in Cape Town on charges of fraud and extortion. She was granted R30,000 bail and the case was postponed to 18 June.
According to police, Mokoena-Zondi allegedly recruited four parliamentary researchers between August and December 2024 and then demanded they hand over 50% to 60% of their salaries, claiming the money was needed for legal costs related to MK party president Jacob Zuma.
[MEDIA STATEMENT]: UMKHONTO WESIZWE PARTY SUSPENDS MMABATHO MOKOENA-ZONDI’S MEMBERSHIP PENDING CORRUPTION INVESTIGATIONS. pic.twitter.com/OvEElTBgC9
— uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) June 2, 2026
Authorities allege the scheme defrauded staff members of about R233,318.
Mokoena-Zondi has denied wrongdoing, reportedly stating in an affidavit that the payments were voluntary contributions intended for the upkeep of the party’s Nkandla headquarters.
The MK party said Mokoena-Zondi must immediately hand over all party documents and assets. It has appointed Philasande Mkhize as the new chief whip.
“Ms Mokoena-Zondi has been instructed to hand over all party documents, records, assets, and any other Party-related materials in her possession with immediate effect.”
The party also clarified that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, Zuma’s daughter, holds no official position within the organisation and serves only as an ordinary member.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
