MK Party suspends deputy president John Hlophe amid leadership shake-up
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has announced the precautionary suspension of its Deputy President and Parliamentary Leader, Dr. John Hlophe, pending a full investigation into his conduct.
The suspension follows a meeting between MKP officials and President Jacob Zuma upon his return from Burkina Faso, and during which the President was briefed on recent changes effected in the National Assembly without collective consultation.
The party emphasized that Hlophe’s unilateral decision to remove Collen Makhubele and appoint Des van Rooyen as Chief Whip has been nullified.
"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," the statement read.
"The leadership of the MK Party remains firmly united and committed to upholding the principles of discipline, accountability and collective decision-making as enshrined in the Party Constitution. This decision should be viewed as a demonstration of the Party’s unwavering commitment to internal party discipline and collective leadership."
Van Rooyen's removal comes less than 24 hours after his appointment.
Makhubele was appointed to the position in May this year, and is the party's third Chief Whip since last year's national elections.
No confirmation yet whether Makhubele will return to the post today.
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