MKP’s Candidate Selection Drama Ahead of the Local Government Elections
Who’s Picking the Candidates?
Claims of Zuma’s Direct Appointments
A KwaZulu‑Natal MPL from the Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) said that former president Jacob Zuma is personally choosing who will run for council seats and even mayoral posts. The MPL argued that Zuma’s habit of “appointing and dismissing” helps keep corruption out of the party.
Party Leader’s Denial
Provincial Convener Willies Mchunu pushed back, saying there is no official rule that lets Zuma pick candidates. He stressed that no one has been named to a mayoral spot yet and that the party is still deciding how nominations will work.
The Role of Zandile Gumede
Why She’s Seen as a Game‑Changer
Zandile Gumede, the former ANC eThekwini chairperson, recently joined MKP. Supporters believe she could draw many traditional ANC voters to the new party, making her a “trump card” for the upcoming elections.
ANC’s Reaction to Her Move
ANC insiders say Gumede’s departure was expected because she had already been sidelined after facing corruption charges. They claim her exit actually lightens the ANC’s load, even though they acknowledge MKP may try to win over her supporters.
Rumors About Other ANC Heavyweights
Talk of Dlamini‑Zuma and Sisulu
The MPL hinted that MKP hopes to attract senior ANC figures such as Nkosazana Dlamini‑Zuma and Lindiwe Sisulu, describing them as possible “surprises” for the campaign.
Their Responses
Both leaders rejected the idea. Dlamini‑Zuma said she remains an ANC member and will continue campaigning for her party. Sisulu added that criticism of the ANC does not mean she is ready to leave, noting that people who break away often return later.
What the Party Says About the Process
Workshop and Upcoming Announcements
MKP spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu said the party held an election workshop and plans to release its candidate list soon. He confirmed that the leadership already knows who will run but could not say whether those names came from nominations or appointments.
ANC’s Perspective on the Competition
ANC eThekwini leaders note that the party will announce its metro mayoral candidates nationally, possibly around August 15. They have interviewed five people for the eThekwini mayoral seat, including the current speaker and former MECs. The ANC argues that it relies on a collective strength rather than a single star player, unlike MKP’s focus on Zuma.
Expert Views on What eThekwini Needs in a Mayor
Economic Priorities
Economist Miyelani Mkhabela says water, sanitation, electricity, roads, and the environment are key to attracting businesses. He believes a mayor who understands the local culture and has a track record of good governance—like former mayor James Nxumalo—could revitalize the city.
Education vs. Experience Debate
Dr Simiso Msomi from Sol Plaatje University counters that a mayor does not need a formal degree; what matters is the ability to oversee officials who deliver services. He argues that practical experience and accountability are more important than academic credentials.
Conclusion
The race for eThekwini’s local government seats is heating up with contrasting strategies. MKP leans on the personal influence of Jacob Zuma and hopes to lure high‑profile ANC members, while the ANC stresses teamwork and downplays the impact of individual defections. As both sides prepare their candidate lists, voters will ultimately decide whether loyalty to a leader or trust in a collective wins the day.
