MKP Free State members demand transparency over candidate lists
Members claim many names that were submitted are not reflected in the lists that appear at the IEC.
Concerned members of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) in the Free State are demanding transparency and national intervention over alleged manipulation of election candidate lists. Alleged irregularities have led to many names submitted by candidates not appearing on the final lists at the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC). The provincial co-ordinator, Sandile Mabiza, faces accusations of being involved in these irregularities.
This has sparked discontent among MKP members who attended a media briefing in Welkom to voice their grievances. Vuyisile Bingwa, a Matjhabeng PR candidate, stated that uncontested districts in Ghariep and Fezile Dabi have raised concerns about the handling of the 2026 local government elections. Also in Mangaung, a mayoral candidate appeared unexpectedly, without being through the prescribed nomination process.
As a result, eight MKP members have resigned due to ongoing disputes. However, National MKP Political Mediator Moosa Kumbe called for calm and unity, urging members not to lose hope. He highlighted similar challenges being faced nationwide, which are currently under investigation. Kumbe stressed the importance of adhering to proper procedures as the party navigates the critical period leading up to elections.
"MKP is going through a lot nationally. So, the crisis that you see here with the comrades complaining is happening in all the other provinces, especially with the ward candidates list. And many candidates are complaining that their lists have either been shuffled or there has been fraud," he stated. The provincial co-ordinator, Sandile Mabiza, dismissed these accusations as unjustified and procedural.
He emphasized that the issue is not under his jurisdiction but is being handled by the national office of the Secretary General. The MKP party has also noted the recent victory of the ANC over the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) at the Constitutional Court, hoping this might provide them with a favorable outcome regarding the submission of candidate lists.
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