The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has taken one of its most decisive disciplinary actions since entering Parliament, expelling Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and former national spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela with immediate effect.
The move, announced by Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo during a media briefing on Thursday, signals an effort by the party leadership to tighten internal discipline and reassert central authority amid growing concerns about factionalism within the organisation.
In a strongly worded statement, the party accused both former members of conduct that undermined unity, challenged established leadership structures and created confusion among supporters about the party’s official programmes and positions.
The expulsions come after months of public tensions that have played out on social media and in the public arena, often exposing disagreements within the party. Nomvalo said national officials had reviewed a pattern of behaviour by both Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela and concluded that their actions were incompatible with the values and constitutional principles of the organisation.
According to the party, Zuma-Sambudla repeatedly used public platforms to question leadership decisions, advance factional narratives and air internal disputes. Party leaders argued that these actions weakened cohesion at a time when the organisation is attempting to consolidate its structures following its rapid rise in South African politics.
Ndhlela, meanwhile, was accused of acting outside authorised party channels, including engaging with the media and participating in activities without approval from recognised party structures. The party said such actions contributed to uncertainty regarding official leadership arrangements and organisational processes.
A significant portion of the party’s case against the pair relates to events surrounding the illness and death of MK Party Member of Parliament Muzi Ntshingila.
Nomvalo said the party viewed their involvement in matters concerning Ntshingila’s medical care and personal affairs as inappropriate and unauthorised. He further alleged that both individuals ignored instructions issued by parliamentary leadership after concerns were raised by Ntshingila’s family.
The party said their conduct during the period of mourning was regarded as disrespectful and inconsistent with the standards expected of members.
Beyond the disciplinary findings themselves, the expulsions are likely to carry broader political implications for the MK Party.
Since its formation, critics and political opponents have frequently questioned whether the organisation could separate party governance from the influence of prominent personalities associated with former president Jacob Zuma. By removing Zuma-Sambudla, one of the party’s most recognisable figures and the daughter of the party’s founder, the leadership appears intent on sending a message that no member is above organisational rules.
Nomvalo directly addressed this perception, saying the decision should put to rest suggestions that the MK Party operates as a “family stokvel.”
The party has maintained that the expulsions were taken in accordance with its constitution, which grants the president authority to issue binding directives in the interests of the organisation.
The development marks a significant moment for the MK Party as it seeks to balance its growing political influence with the challenge of maintaining unity among competing voices within its ranks.
Whether the expulsions bring stability or deepen existing divisions remains to be seen, but the decision leaves little doubt that the party leadership is prepared to act against even its most high-profile members in pursuit of organisational discipline.