DURBAN, KwaZulu-Natal — The African National Congress (ANC) has expressed no surprise over former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede’s decision to join the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalula confirmed the ruling party’s calm stance following the official announcement that Gumede has been appointed as the MK Party’s new deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal.
The political development was unveiled on Monday during a media briefing in Durban. MK Party Secretary-General Sibonelo Nyawo championed the new appointment, characterizing Gumede as a dedicated and seasoned leader whose presence is expected to significantly bolster the party’s provincial leadership structure.
Gumede, who served as the mayor of eThekwini from 2016 to 2019, recently submitted a formal letter to the ANC expressing gratitude for her tenure and experiences within the liberation movement. However, Mbalula firmly rejected the justifications she provided for her political exit.
Addressing allegations in her correspondence that the ANC leadership had strayed from its core path, Mbalula labeled such claims as entirely inaccurate. He asserted that the party’s leadership remains steadfastly focused on tackling complex internal challenges, specifically targeting graft and actively dismantling any perception of institutional corruption.
While recognizing Gumede’s historical value as a grassroots organizer for the movement, Mbalula highlighted the unfortunate circumstances that derailed her tenure. He explained that during her assignment of duties, she became entangled in legal complications. Consequently, Mbalula emphasized that she must face accountability, noting that she is currently navigating court proceedings and was placed on the ANC’s strict “step aside” rule in adherence to the party’s disciplinary policies regarding members facing serious legal challenges.
Despite her transition to the MK Party, the ANC maintains that its broader mandate remains uninterrupted as it continues to enforce its internal accountability frameworks.