MK Party Responds to Chief Whip’s Arrest
What Happened?
The Hawks arrested Mmabatho Mokoena‑Zondi, the Chief Whip of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), on Thursday. She is accused of a salary‑fraud scheme that allegedly took about R233,000 from four party researchers.
Details of the Allegations
How the Scheme Worked
According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani, Mokoena‑Zondi recruited four people between August and December 2024 to work as researchers. She then told them that part of their salary had to be handed over to cover legal costs for the party’s president, Jacob Zuma.
Amount Involved
The Hawks say the suspect forced the workers to give 50% to 60% of their pay. In total, the alleged fraud adds up to R233,317.99.
Party’s Reaction
Acknowledgment
MK Party national spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said the party acknowledges the charge and notes that Mokoena‑Zondi turned herself in to the authorities.
Commitment to the Law
The party stressed its support for constitutionalism and the rule of law, saying it is reviewing the situation and will release an official statement at 3 p.m. on Thursday.
Background on Mmabatho Mokoena‑Zondi
Parliamentary Role
Mokoena‑Zondi became a Member of Parliament in the National Assembly in February 2026. She was appointed Chief Whip after Colleen Makhubele was removed in January.
Previous Experience
Before this role, she served as chief whip in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) and had been acting chief whip to manage caucus affairs and liaise with the Speaker’s office.
What’s Next?
Mokoena‑Zondi is expected to appear in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court. The MK Party says it will share more information later today after studying the case.
Conclusion
The arrest of the MK Party’s Chief Whip has drawn attention to alleged misconduct within the party. While the party acknowledges the legal process and promises to follow the rule of law, the outcome of the court case will determine the next steps for both Mmabatho Mokoena‑Zondi and the organization.
