By Akani Nkuna
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has removed Sibonelo Nomvalo as secretary-general, citing concerns over internal factionalism, dual remuneration, delays in campaign materials and changes to parliamentary structures that were reportedly not communicated to the party’s leadership.
In a statement on Thursday, the party said concerns relating to the councillor selection process and the establishment of high-level deployment committees without the knowledge of relevant leadership structures also contributed to the decision.
The party said these matters had raised concerns about organisational coordination, internal communication, accountability and adherence to established procedures.
Nomvalo was appointed MK Party secretary-general in March this year, replacing Bongani Mncwango. He became the party’s eighth secretary-general since its formation in December 2023.
His removal comes less than two weeks before the 4 November local government elections.
The MK Party has previously defended its frequent leadership changes against criticism that they reflected instability, with Nomvalo himself arguing in March that such changes were inevitable in a relatively new political organisation.
Meanwhile, Lindiwe Mtshali has been appointed acting secretary-general and will work in consultation with national chairperson Mxolisi Phakathi to ensure continuity in the party’s coordination, administration and organisational affairs.
MK Party national spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu will assume additional responsibilities associated with the office of the deputy secretary-general, sharing these functions with Mtshali while retaining his position as spokesperson.
“This interim arrangement is intended to maintain organisational continuity, strengthen coordination and accountability, and ensure the effective execution of decisions taken by the Party’s authorised leadership structures,” the MKP said.
The party has called on its structures to cooperate with the interim leadership and adhere to established organisational procedures.
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