John Hlophe Hits Back at Zuma

In a dramatic escalation of internal tensions within South Africa’s John Hlophe Hits Back at ZumauMkhonto weSizwe Party, suspended deputy president and parliamentary leader Dr John Hlophe has fired back at party founder Jacob Zuma, requesting a full termination of his membership rather than a mere suspension. The move comes just hours after the MK Party announced Hlophe’s precautionary suspension on 5 November 2025, highlighting deep rifts in the opposition outfit that has been plagued by leadership shake-ups since its formation. Hlophe’s bold response, captured in a leaked WhatsApp message, underscores growing frustrations over decision-making processes and personal humiliations in a party positioning itself as a force for radical change.
The suspension and Hlophe’s retort have sent ripples through political circles, with analysts questioning the MK Party’s stability as it navigates its role as the official opposition. Formed in late 2023 ahead of the 2024 elections, the party secured 58 seats in Parliament but has faced repeated controversies, including high-profile dismissals and accusations of autocratic rule. This latest episode adds to the narrative of a organisation struggling with unity amid ambitious goals for economic transformation and justice.

The Suspension: Zuma’s Return Sparks Immediate Action

The MK Party’s office of the presidency released a media statement late on 5 November 2025, confirming Hlophe’s immediate suspension from his roles as deputy president and parliamentary caucus leader. The decision followed Zuma’s return from a successful trip to Burkina Faso, where he met with regional leaders to discuss African unity and progressive policies. Upon arrival, Zuma received a briefing from national officials about unauthorised changes in the National Assembly, including Hlophe’s removal of chief whip Collen Makhubele and her replacement with former finance minister Des van Rooyen.
The party described the suspension as precautionary, pending a full investigation into Hlophe’s conduct. It emphasised the need to uphold collective leadership, discipline, and accountability as outlined in the party’s constitution. “This decision is meant to affirm and send a strong message and the principle of collective leadership across all structures within the uMkhonto weSizwe Party,” the statement read. Consequently, Hlophe’s actions were nullified, reinstating Makhubele and reverting Van Rooyen to an ordinary MP position after less than 24 hours in the role.
Party insiders suggest Zuma viewed Hlophe’s moves as overreach, especially since they occurred without consultation during his absence. The MK Party assured members, supporters, and the public that it remains stable and focused on its mission of genuine transformation and justice for South Africans.

Hlophe’s Fiery Response: A Call for Termination

In a leaked WhatsApp message that quickly circulated on social media, Hlophe expressed his dismay and pushed for a clean break from the party. Addressed to colleagues, the message stated: “Please be advised that i shall not attend plenary tomorrow. I believe i have been suspended. I have asked mzobe to request the President to terminate my MKP membership than suspended me. I am awaiting that communication now.”
The message, timestamped at 21:29, indicates Hlophe’s preference for outright termination over what he may see as a drawn-out and embarrassing process. By referencing Magasela Mzobe, the head of presidency, Hlophe highlighted his direct appeal to Zuma through official channels. This response suggests underlying resentment, possibly stemming from perceived slights or power imbalances within the leadership.
Hlophe’s stance has fueled speculation about his future in politics. As a former Western Cape judge president impeached for gross misconduct in February 2024, he joined the MK Party shortly before the elections, leveraging his legal background to become a key figure. His rapid rise to deputy president and opposition leader made him a vocal critic of the Government of National Unity, but internal dynamics appear to have soured relations.

Background: A History of Turmoil in the MK Party

The MK Party has been no stranger to leadership crises since its inception. Founded by Zuma as a breakaway from the ANC, it quickly attracted high-profile defectors but has struggled with cohesion. In June 2025, former EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu, who served as MK secretary-general, was removed after an unauthorised trip to Malawi to meet controversial pastor Shepherd Bushiri. Shivambu later formed his own party, the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, in September 2025.
Earlier, in May 2025, Mzwanele Manyi was dismissed as chief whip and replaced by Makhubele, whose tenure has been contentious. A faction of MPs accused her of autocratic behaviour, leading to calls for her removal. Hlophe himself had previously clashed with party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela and Zuma’s daughter Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, whom he accused of causing disruptions. In July 2025, Hlophe confirmed Ndhlela’s removal as deputy whip, citing the need for discipline.
Critics have labelled the party a “family and friends business,” with decisions often centralised around Zuma and his inner circle. Founder Jabulani Khumalo and several KwaZulu-Natal members have been dismissed or resigned, citing factionalism and a lack of direction. These ongoing purges have raised doubts about the party’s ability to sustain its momentum, especially after denying the ANC an outright majority in the 2024 polls.
Hlophe’s own history adds layers to the saga. Impeached for attempting to influence judges in Zuma-related cases, he faced further scrutiny when nominated to the Judicial Service Commission in October 2024. Courts blocked his participation, and he withdrew amid legal battles. Sexual harassment allegations from former MP Mary Phadi in August 2024 also lingered, though the party did not act at the time.

Implications for the MK Party and South African Politics

Hlophe’s suspension and his call for termination could deepen divisions within the MK Party, potentially leading to more exits or legal challenges. As the third-largest party with 14.58% of the vote, its role in opposing the ANC-DA-led coalition is crucial, but internal strife may weaken its parliamentary effectiveness. The nullification of Van Rooyen’s appointment – a figure infamous for his 2015 “weekend special” finance minister stint – signals Zuma’s firm grip on party affairs.
For broader politics, this highlights the volatility of newer formations in South Africa’s multiparty landscape. Opposition rivals like the EFF may capitalise on the chaos, while the governing coalition watches for any shifts in alliances. Public trust in the MK Party could erode if such dramas persist, especially as it prepares for by-elections and the 2026 local polls.
The party has directed inquiries to Magasela Mzobe at magaselam@gmail.com or +27 83 563 7942, reaffirming its commitment to stability. As Hlophe awaits a response to his termination request, the coming days will reveal whether this marks the end of his MK chapter or sparks further upheaval in an already turbulent organisation.

🔴Central News Weekly Edition | Issue 119 Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Jacob Zuma Welcomes Tony Yengeni to MK Party as Second Deputy President in Major Leadership Shake-Up🔴

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John Hlophe

John Hlophe Hits Back at Zuma: “Terminate My Membership Instead,” Says Suspended MK Deputy

John Hlophe Hits Back at Zuma

The Suspension: Zuma’s Return Sparks Immediate Action

Hlophe’s Fiery Response: A Call for Termination

Background: A History of Turmoil in the MK Party

Implications for the MK Party and South African Politics

centralnewsza #news #politics #ngwathe #feziledabi #freestate

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