MK party: Zuma makes U-turn on Arthur Zwane’s resignation

The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has confirmed its leader Jacob Zuma has decided not to accept the resignation of secretary-general Arthur Zwane.

Zwane resigned with immediate effect earlier this month after apparently being pushed out of his position by Zuma. In his letter to Zuma, Zwane said he was overwhelmed by work.

He was replaced by Sifiso Maseko as the new secretary-general of the MK party.

MK party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela told The Citizen the change would be immediate.

However, Zuma has since U-turned and now asked Zwane not to resign. The party said Maseko would be transferred to the human resources department within the party.

ALSO READ: Zuma pushes out Arthur Zwane as MK party SG

‘Pivotal task’

Ndhlela said Zuma has not accepted Zwane’s resignation.

“After receiving and carefully considering comrade Zwane’s resignation letter dated July 1, 2024, in which he cited an excessive workload from MK party and a desire to focus on private business, president Zuma has nonetheless decided not to accept the resignation.

“The primary reason, among others, is that the MK party’s founding HUVO in Bela Bela outlined pivotal tasks essential for preparing us for future challenges, particularly strengthening our organisational structures in anticipation of the upcoming 2026 local government elections and beyond,” Ndhlela said.

‘Leadership’

Ndhlela said South Africans are looking to the MK party for leadership.

“Given the turbulent times our country is experiencing under the current DANC coalition and with all South Africans looking to the MK Party for leadership, maintaining strong capacity, unity, and continuity within our ranks is more important than ever.

“In this context, the president and secretary-general met recently to finalise the details of comrade Zwane’s return to office. Consequently, comrade Arthur Zwane is back at work with immediate effect,” Ndhlela said.

“The MK party looks forward to comrade Zwane and his collective’s continued contributions to building a strong, vibrant, and resilient MK Party,” Ndhlela said, highlighting the importance of Maseko’s “vital role in reinforcing the HR arm of the party.”

Head of presidency

Meanwhile, Zuma has appointed Magasela Mzobe as head of the presidency of the party.

Mzobe is a former Economic Freedom Fighter and ANC Youth league leader.

Ndhlela said Mzobe was appointed on Wednesday.

ALSO READ: Zuma appoints Magasela Mzobe as MK party’s head of presidency