Former eThekwini ANC chairperson Zandile Gumede has joined the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), citing the party's more flexible approach as a key factor. Gumede, now the MKP's deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, said she was able to continue serving communities without restrictions. She had been affected by the ANC's step-aside policy, which requires members facing charges to step aside from organisational duties. Gumede was arrested in 2019 on allegations of fraud and corruption.
Gumede continued supporting vulnerable communities through a soup kitchen and her foundation, which helped pupils obtain school shoes and assisted Grade 12 learners. However, she said it was challenging not knowing where to report after stepping aside from the ANC. With the MKP, Gumede said she could help communities freely. She described her role as a volunteer doing groundwork and expressed enthusiasm for her new position.
Gumede discussed the MKP's performance in the local government elections, where the party secured 34.4% of the provincial vote and 599 council seats. The MKP emerged as the largest party by vote share in KwaZulu-Natal but fell short of outright majorities in most municipalities. Gumede attributed the party's performance to teamwork and a focus on service delivery.
In eThekwini, the MKP won 86 council seats, making it the largest party but not securing an outright majority. Gumede expressed disappointment with the allocation of council seats through the proportional representation system, which led to a coalition. She thanked her comrades for their work, particularly in Umlazi, where the party won all wards.
Gumede highlighted the importance of teamwork and respect for party structures, citing MKP president Jacob Zuma as a leader who stood with his people during difficult times. She said younger politicians could learn from Zuma's approach and the party's collective effort. The MKP's focus on service delivery and teamwork contributed to its performance.
The MKP won outright control of three municipalities, including Richmond, where it secured 56.27% of the vote. However, 34 of KwaZulu-Natal's 44 councils remained without outright majorities, setting the stage for coalition negotiations. The IFP emerged as the leading party in more municipalities, securing outright control of five.
Gumede's move to the MKP and her role in the party reflect her commitment to serving communities. Her experience with the ANC's step-aside policy and her new position with the MKP highlight the complexities of party politics in South Africa. The MKP's performance in the local government elections demonstrates its growing influence in KwaZulu-Natal.
Key points
- Zandile Gumede joins MKP citing more freedom to serve communities
- MKP secures 34.4% of provincial vote in KwaZulu-Natal
- Gumede attributes MKP's performance to teamwork and service delivery focus
