Former Durban Mayor Zandile Gumede Finds a New Political Home
Who Is Zandile Gumede?
Zandile Gumede served as the mayor of eThekwini (Durban) from 2016 until her removal in 2019. She is a well‑known figure in KwaZulu‑Natal politics and a longtime ally of former President Jacob Zuma.
Why Was She Removed From Office?
In 2019 Gumede was arrested over a R320 million solid‑waste tender. She and 21 others face charges of fraud, corruption, money‑laundering and racketeering related to that contract. She pleaded not guilty and was released on bail.
Her ANC Journey After the Arrest
Even while the case was ongoing, Gumede’s supporters elected her as the ANC’s eThekwini regional chairperson in 2022. However, the ANC’s step‑aside rule stopped her from actually performing the duties of that role. In June 2023 the ANC disbanded the regional executive committee and left her out of the replacement task team, effectively ending her official role in the party’s structures.
Gumede’s Statement on Loyalty
Despite being left off the ANC’s candidate lists for the 2024 elections, Gumede told IOL that she remained a loyal party member and was waiting for her day in court to clear her name.
MK Party Welcomes Her
On Monday the MK Party announced that Gumede would become its KwaZulu‑Natal deputy convener. MK Party secretary‑general Sibonelo Nomvalo made the declaration at a press briefing, saying:
“We welcome you, uMama, we’re giving you a very warm reception because you have unquestionable credentials in the politics of KwaZulu‑Natal and in the politics of SA.”
What Does the MK Party Say About the Move?
Nomvalo highlighted that the MK Party is growing while other organisations are losing members. He described the party as “the only alternative voice of the left” and “the only remaining voice of the voiceless” in South Africa. He believes Gumede will bring a positive paradigm shift and strengthen the party’s efforts to build a “strong ship of the left.”
Why This Move Matters for Local Politics
Gumede’s high profile in eThekwini gives the MK Party a recognizable name ahead of the upcoming local government elections. In the 2024 general elections the MK Party already made significant inroads into ANC support in the metro, and her addition could help consolidate those gains.
Conclusion
Zandile Gumede’s shift from the ANC to the MK Party marks a new chapter in her political career. While she continues to face serious corruption charges, her move provides the MK Party with a well‑known figure in KwaZulu‑Natal and signals the party’s ambition to expand its influence. How this alliance will affect the upcoming local elections—and Gumede’s ongoing legal battle—remains to be seen.
