Zuma disbands top task team again, removes mayoral candidate amid MK Party election candidate list fiasco

President Jacob Zuma of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has once again disbanded a top task team and removed a mayoral candidate amid a fiasco with the MK Party's election candidate list. Zandile Hlophe-Mkhwanazi, the party's initial choice for the mayoral position in eThekwini, has been dismissed after reports surfaced alleging she manipulated councillor candidate lists submitted to the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

The party has also removed her and Sibonelo Maphumulo from the National Party Liaison Committee (NPLC).

The removal comes after Zuma expressed deep concern over the allegations that the councillor candidate lists had been altered, potentially removing deserving candidates. The party's national spokesperson, Sifiso Mahlangu, emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of their organisation and the democratic process. He stated that the party would investigate the allegations thoroughly and take appropriate action if any wrongdoing is found.

In response to these events, Zuma has appointed Apostle Mxolisi Phakathi as the new mayoral candidate for eThekwini with immediate effect. The party's leadership congratulated Phakathi on his designation and wished him success in his responsibilities.

Furthermore, Zuma disbanded the Presidential Task Team (PTT), a structure that was previously disbanded. The party's spokesperson acknowledged that these decisions were made to safeguard the integrity of their processes and protect the interests of their members, candidates, and voters. The party apologized for any uncertainty and disruption caused by these developments and urged members to unite behind their candidates and support them towards a successful outcome in the upcoming Local Government Elections on November 4, 2026.