MK Party’s eThekwini mayoral candidate disputes Master’s-degree claim

MK Party's eThekwini mayoral candidate, Apostle Mxolisi Phakathi, has disputed a claim made by a party representative that he holds a Master's degree in Public Administration. In a recent debate, MK Party representative Professor Thamsanqa Mkhize had stated that Phakathi possessed the degree, responding to questions about the qualifications required for municipal leadership.

Mkhize emphasized that the party did not advocate for cadre deployment and that merit should be the basis for appointments. However, Action SA's Zwakhele Mncwango brought to light an earlier article from dailynews.co.za, which revealed that Phakathi only holds a Biblical Studies diploma. Mkhize suggested that the discrepancy should be verified with the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), rather than relying on a newspaper report.

When contacted by dailynews.co.za for clarifications, Mkhize revealed that he had relied on information from Phakathi's former comrades in the African Transformation Movement (ATM), basing his belief on Phakathi's perceived intelligence and leadership qualities. During the debate, Apostle Phakathi maintained that his lack of formal qualifications did not disqualify him from the mayoral position, arguing that leadership qualities cannot be determined solely by academic achievements.

He highlighted his experience and legislative record as evidence of his suitability for the role. In contrast, EFF mayoral candidate Hlengiwe Mkhaliphi challenged Mkhize to provide proof of Phakathi's qualifications, to which Mkhize affirmed his Master's degree in Public Administration, despite the earlier contradictory statements.

In light of the ongoing debate, various opinions were expressed regarding the significance of qualifications in leadership roles. KZN political analyst Zakhele Ndlovu emphasized the importance of tertiary education for those entrusted with legislative and governance responsibilities, while cautioning about the prevalence of fraudulent academic credentials.

Dr Ntsikelelo Breakfast, a political analyst, highlighted that there was no constitutional requirement for political parties to base their selection of mayoral candidates on academic qualifications. She also pointed out that qualifications alone could not guarantee ethical leadership, citing instances of corruption involving individuals with advanced degrees.