Ethekwini – Former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede, who is facing corruption charges, has joined the MK Party after being appointed KwaZulu-Natal deputy convener.
Announcing the appointment on Monday, MK Party secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo said: “Today, we wish to announce… uMama uZandile Gumede as the deputy convener of KZN.” He welcomed her to the party, saying she has “unquestionable credentials in the politics of KwaZulu-Natal and in the politics of SA.”
Nomvalo said Gumede would strengthen the party, adding: “We know that you are coming with a very positive contribution in the MK Party.”
The Umkhonto weSizwe Party has unveiled former eThekwini mayor, Zandile Gumede, as one of its new members. Gumede will serve as the MK Party’s Deputy Convener in KwaZulu-Natal despite being on trial for fraud and corruption related to a multi-million rand waste removal tender… pic.twitter.com/mRd68x5Fo9
— eNCA (@eNCA) July 13, 2026
According to IOL, Gumede was removed as eThekwini mayor in 2019 after her arrest over the controversial R320 million Durban solid waste tender.
She and 21 co-accused are on trial on charges including fraud, corruption, money laundering and racketeering, all of which she has denied.
She remains out on R50,000 bail, the report said.
BREAKING NEWS | The uMkhonto weSizwe Party has welcomed former eThekwini Mayor Zandile Gumede as its deputy convener in KwaZulu-Natal. MK Party Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo says: “This is the only alternative voice of the left. This is the only remaining voice of the… pic.twitter.com/e2XrbCkjAC
— SABC News (@SABCNews) July 13, 2026
A longtime ally of former president Jacob Zuma, Gumede had previously insisted she remained loyal to the ANC, saying: “I am a loyal party member and have not been found guilty. I am waiting for my day in court to clear my name,” said the report.
Her move gives the MK Party one of KwaZulu-Natal’s best-known political figures ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
