Johnathan Paoli
uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party leader and former President Jacob Zuma has rescinded party secretary-general Arthur Zwane’s resignation.
National spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said on Thursday that having carefully considered Zwane’s resignation letter dated 1 July, the party leader requested him not to leave the party.
Ndhlela said Zwane was desperately needed in the party.
“The primary reason, among others, is that the MK Party’s founding HUVO in Bela Bela outlined pivotal tasks essential for preparing us for future challenges, particularly strengthening our organisational structures in anticipation of the upcoming 2026 local government elections and beyond,” the spokesperson said.
He said the party needed to maintain strong capacity, unity and continuity within its ranks, as South Africans would be looking to MK as the official opposition against the current “DANC coalition”.
Ndhlela said Zuma and Zwane recently met in order to finalise the former SG’s return to office, and that his reinstatement takes place with immediate effect.
Zwane resigned as SG, claiming excessive workload and a desire to focus on his private business, as the main reasons behind his decision. He was then replaced by Sifiso Maseko.
Ndhlela said Maseko would be transferred to the Human Resources Department within the party, which the spokesperson described as a key component in its efforts to enhance operations and establish structures and offices throughout the country.
“The MK Party looks forward to Comrade Zwane and his collective’s continued contributions to building a strong, vibrant and resilient MK, and to Maseko’s vital role in reinforcing the HR arm of the party,” he said.
As the official opposition, MK must ensure that the government is held accountable for its attempt at reversing the gains made thus far and its failures to address rampant unemployment, poverty, homelessness and landlessness, Ndhela said.
In addition, former Economic Freedom Fighter and African National Congress Youth League leader, Magasela Mzobe has been appointed as head of the presidency of the party.
Ndhlela said the appointment is aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the presidency and to strengthen the organisation as a whole.
“Comrade Magasela will be instrumental in supporting the president in executing his duties and responsibilities,” he said.
The party has experienced a wave of structural and leadership changes since the national and provincial elections in May this year.
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