Trouble mounts for MK Party’s Nhlamulo Ndhlela

The MK Party has taken swift action against Nhlamulo Ndhlela, suspending his membership with immediate effect. This move comes just a day after he was removed from his role as national spokesperson and member of Parliament. Ndhlela is accused of misconduct, sowing division within the party, and conduct that has brought the party into disrepute.

The party’s new national spokesperson, Sifiso Mahlangu, stated that Ndhlela has been instructed to return all party property, including materials, account details, and devices. Mahlangu explained that the party has informed the chief whip, Mmabatho Mokoena Zondi, of the suspension, and it will remain in effect until the investigation is concluded.

Leadership Changes in the MK Party

Since its launch in December 2023, the MK Party has experienced frequent changes in leadership. The latest change involves Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the son of convicted fraudster Joe Ndhlela, who was appointed as the party’s national organiser in November 2024. The party has a history of making changes to its leadership, with the most recent reshuffle occurring in March this year.

In the March reshuffle, the party replaced Bongani Mncwango with Sibonelo Nomvalo as secretary-general. This change marked the seventh time the party has appointed a new secretary-general since its inception in 2023. Former DA and ActionSA member Bongani Baloyi was also removed as the head of elections and replaced with Tholakele Dlamini.

Discipline and Leadership

Sibonelo Nomvalo, in an interview with SABC News, discussed the importance of discipline within the party. He emphasized that issues of discipline need to be dealt with decisively, even if it means making tough decisions. Nomvalo stated, “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.”

“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,” he added.