Jacob Zuma Appoints Son as MK Party Deputy President

Jacob Zuma, President of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, overhauled the organization's national leadership during a media briefing in Durban on August 4 and 5, 2026. The most prominent change was the appointment of his son, Duduzane Zuma, as first deputy president with immediate effect. This move replaces John Hlophe, though Hlophe retains his role as the party's parliamentary leader in the National Assembly.

Additional leadership changes include the appointment of Tony Yengeni as second deputy president and Reverend Mxolisi Phakathi as national chairperson, replacing Nkosinathi Nhleko. Lindiwe Mtshali replaced Nomsa Dlamini as deputy secretary-general, and Willies Mchunu was added to the presidency collective to provide strategic advice. Zuma also appointed Zandile Hlophe and Sibonelo Maphumulo as representatives to the Independent Electoral Commission.

Structurally, Zuma dissolved the Strategic Presidential Team and reinstated the Presidential Task Team. While secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo and treasurer-general Brian Molefe have resumed full duties following the lifting of a financial moratorium, Zuma announced he will personally exercise political oversight over party finances and key functions. The party characterized the reshuffle as an effort to strengthen organizational structures, though the appointment of Duduzane Zuma has triggered public debate regarding family influence and political succession.