JOHANNESBURG – The political landscape in South Africa continues to shift as more and more prominent figures abandon their existing parties to join former president Jacob Zuma’s Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP).
The latest defection comes from Colleen Makhubele, the founder and leader of the South African Rainbow Alliance (Sara), who announced her decision to join the MKP in a statement on 29 August 2024.
"This is the party that will steer South Africa into the future, bringing about constructive transformation and advancement in African society," she wrote in her statement. "I affirm what Robert Sobukwe said, and it still stands true today: 'Our whole life in South Africa is politics."
She also expressed her belief that the MKP is the answer to the aspirations of South Africans, particularly young women, who have long sought acceptance, opportunities, and ownership of their land.
"We must offer ourselves to carry on our shoulders the aspirations of our people," Makhubele said. "As young women, we can no longer remain silent and watch from the sidelines of despair on all matters deeply affecting our country."
Makhubele's decision to join the MKP comes just two weeks after Floyd Shivambu, a prominent figure in the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), announced his resignation from the party and subsequent move to the MKP.
Shivambu, flanked by EFF leader Julius Malema, read out his resignation letter, confirming his allegiance to the MKP. This move followed the recent departure of Mzwanele Manyi from the EFF, who had previously left the African Transformation Movement (ATM) to join the EFF in 2023.
Manyi's move to the MKP has been swiftly rewarded, with the party appointing him as its Chief Whip in Parliament, replacing Sihle Ngubane.
"His extensive expertise will add impetus to the ongoing work within the party, while building upon the solid foundation laid by Honourable Ngubane," said MK spokesman Nhlamulo Ndhlela.
"We're confident Honourable Manyi's leadership will further strengthen our party's commitment to serving the people with integrity and dedication."
The rapid influx of high-profile figures into the MKP has raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about the party's growing influence.
Makhubele, who previously served as Speaker for the City of Johannesburg Metro Council under the Congress of the People (Cope), has stated that her decision to join the MKP will only amplify the work she was doing in Sara.
"The MK Party has become a beacon of hope to unite and rally African leaders and their people, and a barometer of African politics," she said.
While she wished well to those who remain in or join Sara, she declared her allegiance to the "brave and fearless comrades of the MK Party."
With the recent influx of prominent figures from other parties, the MKP is positioning itself as a viable alternative for those seeking change and a new direction for the country.
