Zuma replaces Hlophe as MK Party first deputy president with son, Duduzane
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party announced on Tuesday night that its leader has removed former Judge Dr John Hlophe as the party's first deputy president while keeping him as party leader in the National Assembly.
MK party spokesperson, Sifiso Mahlangu, said Zuma made 'organisational decisions' to strengthen the party.
Nkosinathi Nhleko was relieved as National Chairperson of the party, and was replaced by Apostle Mxolisi Phakathi.
"The President hereby relieves Dr John Hlophe of his responsibilities as First Deputy President of the MK Party with immediate effect," said Mahlangu.
He said Zuma extended his gratitude to Hlophe for his leadership and dedication to the party.
Hlophe will remain the Parliamentary leader of the MK Party in the National Assembly.
"[Zuma] hereby relieves Nomsa Dlamini of her responsibilities as Deputy Secretary-General of the MK Party with immediate effect. President Zuma thanks her for her service and contribution to the Party and wishes her well in her future endeavours."
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Zuma appointed his son Duduzane Zuma as the First Deputy President of the MK Party, and Tony Yengeni as the Second Deputy President.
"The President further confirms that he shall exercise political oversight over the organisation, including oversight over the Party’s finances, the Secretariat and all key organisational functions."
Mahlangu also announced that the Strategic Presidential Team (SPT) had been dissolved.
"Any commitments, therefore, contracts, obligations or financial liabilities entered into by members of the SPT shall not be the responsibility of the MK Party.
"The party will not assume any responsibility for the debts or financial obligations incurred without the party's duly authorised approval."
Zuma has meanwhile appointed Willies Mchunu, the party's provincial leader in KwaZulu-Natal, to serve as part of the party's presidential collective.
According to a statement by the MKP, the former premier will play a "pivotal role in providing strategic advice, organisational guidance and support on matters requiring presidential oversight and coordination."
President Jacob Zuma has announced several leadership changes within the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, effective immediately. pic.twitter.com/tBBSTGgo8X
— uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) August 5, 2026
In June, the party announced the expulsion of Zuma's daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, and former party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlela.
The pair was initially suspended by the party, which accused them of conduct that undermined organisational unity, discipline and constitutional processes.
Addressing media at the time, Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo said the decision followed findings that Ndlela and Zuma-Sambudla had acted in a manner inconsistent with the organisation's values and principles.
Following Tuesday's announcement, Nomvalo urged members to remain focused on the party's national mission and engage members of the public on the MK Party's manifesto.
