The MK party made headlines recently with the removal of Mzwanele Manyi as its chief whip in the National Assembly. Manyi, who was appointed less than a year ago, was replaced by Colleen Makhubele, a former speaker of the City of Johannesburg council.
The decision to remove Manyi was announced by National Assembly speaker Thoko Didiza during a parliamentary session, just before President Cyril Ramaphosa’s scheduled appearance for a question-and-answer session with MPs. Manyi received official communication signed by deputy party president John Hlophe, informing him of his dismissal and welcoming Makhubele as the new chief whip.
Manyi’s appointment in August 2024 was intended to bring stability to the party’s parliamentary operations and align with its leadership, including Zuma and Hlophe. However, reports of a physical confrontation between Manyi and Hlophe during a caucus meeting in February raised concerns about internal conflicts within the party.
Allegations of Manyi sabotaging Hlophe’s State of the Nation debate led to tensions between the two leaders, prompting Manyi’s removal from his position. Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela denied the incident, but sources within the party confirmed the internal strife.
The leadership change comes at a time when the party is facing criticism for its lack of visibility and failure to set the agenda in parliament. Calls for a restructuring of parliamentary leadership have been circulating among party members, aiming to improve discipline and performance in parliament.
Despite reports of internal divisions, Ndhlela issued a statement reassuring supporters of the party’s unity and commitment to serving the people of South Africa. The party has not officially addressed the details of Manyi’s dismissal or confirmed whether it is part of a broader reshuffle.
Makhubele expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her by Hlophe and the caucus, emphasizing her commitment to leading with courage and unwavering focus on the party’s ideals. As the new chief whip, she aims to uphold the values of empowerment and leadership within the party.
The MK party’s decision to remove Manyi reflects a strategic move to address internal challenges and improve its performance in parliament. The party remains focused on its mission to serve the people of South Africa and overcome obstacles to achieving its goals.
