The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party expelled two members, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela, following accusations that they caused internal divisions [1].
This purge signals deepening instability within the party, as it involves the removal of high-profile figures and the daughter of former president Jacob Zuma.
The expulsions were announced Monday, May 13, 2026 [3, 4]. Following the decision, Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela held a briefing for the media to address their removal from the organization [1].
Party leadership said the two members were removed for causing divisions and defying party unity [2, 4]. Specific allegations included the issuance of a statement suggesting that Jacob Zuma's national command had been disbanded [2, 5]. Additionally, the party raised accusations regarding the recruitment of mercenaries for Russia [2, 5].
There are conflicting reports regarding the specific authority behind the removal of Zuma-Sambudla. Party statements and reports from mg.co.za indicate the decision was taken by party leadership [3, 4]. However, The Africa Report said that former president Jacob Zuma personally fired his daughter [5].
Ndhlela previously served as a spokesperson and member of parliament before the party fired him from those roles [3]. The total number of members expelled in this specific action was two [1].
“The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party expelled two members, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela”
The expulsion of Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela highlights a volatile internal power struggle within the MK Party. By removing a direct family member of its founder and a key spokesperson, the party is prioritizing strict central command over familial or professional ties. The nature of the accusations—ranging from administrative defiance to international mercenary recruitment—suggests a breakdown in trust at the highest levels of the party's hierarchy.
