The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party expelled Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and former national spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela with immediate effect [1], [3].
The move signals a deepening internal crisis within the party, as it removes the daughter of its founder, Jacob Zuma, amid accusations of factionalism.
Party officials announced the decision during a media briefing held Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Johannesburg [2], [3]. The party confirmed that two individuals were removed from the organization [4].
The MK Party accused Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela of sowing division and bringing the party into disrepute [5]. Officials said the pair violated the party constitution by promoting factional narratives and undertaking unsanctioned actions before and after the death of a party MP [5].
Zuma-Sambudla had previously held a prominent role within the organization. The party's decision to fire her and Ndhlela follows a period of internal instability, a trend that has seen the party struggle to maintain a unified front.
Sibonelo Nomvalo, the party Secretary General, said the actions were necessary to protect the integrity of the organization and ensure adherence to its governing rules [1], [3].
Neither Zuma-Sambudla nor Ndhlela have issued a formal response to the expulsion as of Thursday afternoon [2].
“The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party expelled Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela with immediate effect.”
The expulsion of a direct family member of Jacob Zuma suggests that the MK Party is prioritizing institutional discipline or internal power shifts over familial loyalty. By removing both a high-profile family member and a former national spokesperson, the party is attempting to purge factionalism that threatens its stability and public image in South Africa's volatile political landscape.
