JOHANNESBURG, Gauteng — The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has officially shifted its focus to ward-level engagements, canceling its traditional stadium manifesto launch ahead of the upcoming local government elections on November 4. The strategic pivot, alongside an ongoing legal challenge regarding candidate lists, marks a new phase in the party’s campaign approach as it seeks to connect directly with voters.
MK Party Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo explained that the decision to abandon the norm of filling stadiums was deliberate and based on current material conditions. Instead of large-scale rallies, the party will prioritize daily, tangible interactions with voters at the ward level. Nomvalo stated that this approach allows the party to be more “scientific” in its campaigning. By interacting with voters daily, the party aims to accurately measure voter attitudes, assess its state of readiness, and gauge its prospects for success without relying on public perceptions tied to stadium attendance.
Addressing speculation that the rally cancellation was due to financial constraints or resource challenges, Nomvalo firmly dismissed the claims. He characterized the allegations as “gossip” and emphasized that the party’s financial standing is not the motive behind the strategic shift. He maintained that the party will not be distracted by unfounded rumors and remains entirely focused on securing an “overwhelming victory” in the November 4 elections.
The Secretary-General also addressed internal friction regarding the party’s candidate list, acknowledging administrative and technical deficiencies that have left some members disgruntled. He specifically noted issues such as the removal of a male candidate in eThekwini (Durban). Nomvalo assured supporters that the leadership is comprehensively addressing these grievances to ensure justice for the affected communities. He confirmed that the impacted members remain loyal to the party and are actively participating in the campaign, encouraging others to put aside their grievances for the sake of the organization’s success.
In addition to campaign restructuring, the MK Party is challenging the Constitutional Court’s judgment that permitted the inclusion of 181 African National Congress (ANC) candidates in the upcoming elections. Nomvalo expressed deep dissatisfaction with the ruling, arguing that the decision appears aimed at tempering the election’s outcomes.
He alleged that while all parties were required to comply with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) timeframes and directives, the courts ultimately favored the ANC. Nomvalo contended that political parties are using courts of law as a pillar of strength when they fail to administer proper administrative actions. He asserted that if the MK Party had faced similar administrative failures, it would not have been granted the same judicial privileges or outcomes as the ANC.
