Durban – Former president Jacob Zuma has announced “organisational changes” in his uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), that saw his son, Duduzane, appointed the First Deputy President.
“Following careful consideration and consultation, the President hereby relieves Mr. Nkosinathi Nhleko of his responsibilities as National Chairperson of the MK Party with immediate effect,” the MK Party said on Tuesday, 4 August 2026.
Rev. Phakathi has been appointed the National Chairperson of the MK Party with immediate effect.
The organisational changes include:
- Dr. John Hlophe has been relieved of his responsibilities as First Deputy President of the MK Party with immediate effect. However, Dr. Hlophe remains the Parliamentary Leader of the MK Party.
- Rev. Phakathi appointed National Chairperson of the MK Party
- Duduzane Zuma appointed First Deputy President of the MK Party with immediate effect.
- Tony Yengeni appointed Second Deputy President of the MK Party.
- Willis Mchunu to serve as part of the Presidency collective of the MK Party. Mchunu shall continue to serve as the Provincial Leader of the MK Party in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Lindiwe Mtshali appointed Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) of the MK Party
“The President hereby dissolves the Strategic Presidential Team with immediate effect,” the MK Party statement said.
“Consequently, the Team ceases to exist in any capacity within the organisational structures of the MK Party.
“Any commitments, contracts, obligations or financial liabilities entered into by members of the dissolved Strategic Presidential Team shall not be the responsibility of the MK Party.”
President Zuma has extended his sincere gratitude to Dr. Hlophe for his leadership and also thanked Dlamini for her service and contribution to the party.
