By: Saneliso Mlambo
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has removed Dr John Hlophe as its first deputy president with immediate effect and appointed Duduzane Zuma to the position. Hlophe will, however, remain the party’s parliamentary leader in the National Assembly, making the move one of the most significant leadership changes ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
The decision was announced by the party on Tuesday as part of a broader restructuring of its national leadership. The shake-up also included changes to other senior positions, with the party saying the reconfiguration is intended to strengthen its organisational structures and improve effectiveness.
Despite losing the deputy presidency, Hlophe retains one of the party’s most influential parliamentary positions as its leader in the National Assembly. His continued role suggests the party still intends to rely on his parliamentary leadership while redistributing responsibilities within its political structure.
The promotion of Duduzane Zuma, the son of MK Party president Jacob Zuma, places him among the party’s most senior leaders. His appointment further strengthens the Zuma family’s influence within the organisation at a time when the party is preparing for key electoral contests.
The MK Party has not publicly cited specific reasons for removing Hlophe from the position of first deputy president. Instead, the party described the changes as an organisational reconfiguration aimed at consolidating its leadership and improving unity and discipline within the organisation.