Johannesburg – The musical chairs at the helm of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party) continue with the removal of Colleen Makhubele as the Chief Whip in Parliament and Treasurer-General Mpiyakhe Limba.
The largest opposition party, led by 83-year-old former president Jacob Zuma, on Monday, 12 January 2026, announced the removal of the pair and their replacements.
Announcing what is said was “important organisational and parliamentary caucus changes”, the MK Party said Makhubele has been replaced by Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi, who is now the acting chief whip in Parliament, and Limba has been replaced by former Transnet executive, Brian Molefe, as Treasurer-General.
The MK Party said the changes were taken in the best interests of strengthening the movement and advancing its political mandate.
“Following a decision taken by H.E. President Jacob Zuma, together with the National Officials, the party has resolved to relieve Comrade Mpiyakhe Limba of his duties as Treasurer General with immediate effect,” the MK Party said.
“The MK Party extends its sincere gratitude to Comrade Limba for his service and contribution to the organisation during his tenure and wishes him well in his future endeavours.”
The Party also announced the appointment of Molefe as the new Treasurer General of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.
“Comrade Molefe brings with him extensive experience in public administration, governance, finance, and organisational leadership,” said the MK Party.
“His proven track record, strategic capability, and deep understanding of complex financial systems render him suitably qualified to assume this critical responsibility at this phase of the party’s growth.’
With regard to the Parliamentary Caucus, the MK Party said it has taken a decision to relieve Makhubele of her duties as Chief Whip with immediate effect, while she remains a member of Parliament.
The Mk Party thanked Comrade Makhubele for her contribution to the work of the caucus.
“To ensure administrative continuity, the party has appointed Comrade Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi, the NCOP Chief Whip, to act in a caretaker capacity over the role of Chief Whip, for purposes of interfacing with the office of the Speaker and preside over internal governance within caucus,” the MK Party said.
“Furthermore, the MK Party announces the upliftment of the suspension of Comrade Vanessa Calvert and her immediate reinstatement as Chief of Staff in the Parliamentary Caucus.
“This decision takes effect immediately.”
The MK Party said it remains committed to organisational discipline, collective leadership, and the strengthening of its structures in pursuit of the aspirations of the people of South Africa.
