Durban – The turbulence in the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has continued with the late-night suspension of Deputy President Dr. John Hlophe.
Announcing the suspension in a statement made available to The Bulrushes at about 1 am, Thursday 6 November 2025, the MK Party said that upon President Jacob Zuma’s return home from Burkina Faso, he was informed about changes “effected at the National Assembly without a collective consultation”.
During Zuma’s absence, MK Party Chief Whip Colleen Makhubele was axed months after her appointment and replaced by former finance minister Des Van Rooyen.
Makhubele had replaced former chief whip Mzwanele Manyi in May.
Now, Zuma has suspended his deputy over the changes that occurred while he was away.
“The President has taken a decision to issue a precautionary suspension to the Party’s Deputy President and the Leader of the MKP Parliament Caucus, Dr. John Hlophe, from both his leadership roles with immediate effect, pending a full investigation on [sic. into] his conduct,” the statement said.
“This decision is meant to affirm and send a strong message and the principle of collective leadership across all structures within the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.
“Consequently, the decision taken by Dr. Hlophe to remove Cde Collen Makhubele and appoint Cde Des Van Rooyen is therefore nullified.”
The statement issued by Magasela Mzobe, Head of Presidency, MK Party, said the leadership remains “firmly united and committed to upholding the principles of discipline, accountability, and collective decision-making”.
The statement added that “this decision should be viewed as a demonstration of the party’s unwavering commitment to internal party discipline and collective leadership”.
The MK Party said it wishes to assure all its members, supporters, and “the broader South African public that the organisation remains stable, focused and steadfast in pursuing its mission to bring about genuine transformation and justice for the people of South Africa”.
