Johannesburg – South Africa’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has removed secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo, less than two weeks before the November 4 local government elections, citing internal disputes and concerns over organisational management.
In a statement issued by party president Jacob Zuma’s office on Thursday, the party said Nomvalo’s removal followed concerns about the selection of councillor candidates, internal factionalism, dual remuneration, delays in campaign materials and alleged changes to parliamentary structures without the knowledge of senior leadership.
“These matters have raised concerns regarding organisational coordination, internal communication, accountability and adherence to established party procedures,” the party said.
The party also accused Nomvalo of establishing high-level deployment committees without the knowledge of relevant leadership structures. It requested his cooperation in ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities.
BREAKING: Sibonelo Nomvalo has been removed as the MK Party Secretary General.
The party says the removal is based on among other issues, concerns related to internal factionalism, dual remuneration.
Lindiwe Mtshali is now acting SG of the #MKParty
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Deputy secretary-general Lindiwe Mtshali has been appointed acting secretary-general and will work with national chairperson Mxolisi Phakathi.
National spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu will also assume additional deputy secretary-general duties while retaining his spokesperson position.
Nomvalo, who remains an MK Party member of Parliament, was appointed secretary-general in March, replacing Bongani Mncwango. His removal marks another leadership change in the party, which has experienced repeated turnover in the position since its formation in December 2023.
The latest shake-up comes amid wider organisational challenges ahead of the polls. In September, MK Party members protested over alleged irregularities in councillor candidate lists submitted to the Electoral Commission of South Africa, claiming the lists did not reflect candidates selected in their wards.
The leadership changes also come as questions continue over Zuma’s health and absence from public campaigning following his hospitalisation.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
