MK Party axes Nhlamulo Ndhlela as spokesperson and MP

The MK Party has made some significant changes to its leadership, with Nhlamulo Ndhlela being removed as national spokesperson and member of Parliament. This decision was announced on Monday night, 18 May, by the party’s newly elected secretary-general, Sibonelo Nomvalo.

The announcement was made following a meeting with the party’s national officials. Sifiso Mahlangu, a former editor of The Star, will take over as the new spokesperson. According to Nomvalo, Mahlangu brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked as a journalist and newspaper editor. He also possesses invaluable technical and professional insights that will benefit the party.

Leadership Reshuffle at the MK Party

Nomvalo expressed gratitude to Nhlamulo Ndhlela for his service as the party’s inaugural national spokesperson. Ndhlela will step down from his roles as spokesperson and member of Parliament with immediate effect. When speaking to SABC News, Nomvalo stated that Ndhlela’s removal is related to a media statement presented during a media briefing at the weekend, which the party had not endorsed.

In an interview with SABC News, Nomvalo explained that the party cannot suspend enforcement of discipline due to public perceptions. He emphasized that issues of discipline need to be dealt with decisively, even if it means making tough decisions. Nomvalo said, “If you allow discipline to reign within the supreme ranks of the organisation, that is going to have a longstanding impact. So, you need to strike a balance between public perceptions and enforcing discipline.”

Changes in the MK Party’s Leadership

The MK Party has undergone several leadership changes since its inception. The latest change affects Nhlamulo Ndhlela, who is the son of convicted fraudster Joe Ndhlela. Joe Ndhlela was appointed as the party’s national organiser in November 2024. In March this year, the party axed Bongani Mncwango as its secretary-general and replaced him with Sibonelo Nomvalo. Former DA and ActionSA member Bongani Baloyi was also axed as the head of elections and was replaced with Tholakele Dlamini.

The party’s leadership changes have been frequent, with Sibonelo Nomvalo being the seventh secretary-general since the party’s inception in 2023. Nomvalo said, “Sometimes discipline comes with harsh consequences for the party. However, for the livelihood of the party in the long run, you must never compromise discipline.”