Dr John Hlophe
By Thabo Mosia
Dr John Hlophe, Deputy President of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), has issued a formal demand for a retraction from former Mpumalanga convener Mary Phadi concerning her recent allegations of sexual misconduct against him. This move marks the latest escalation in a dispute that has garnered substantial public and media attention across South Africa.
Background of the Allegations
The controversy began when Mary Phadi accused Dr Hlophe of making unsolicited sexual advances during a leadership meeting in Mpumalanga on 4 August 2024. In a letter dated 16 January 2025, addressed to MKP President Jacob Zuma, Phadi detailed her claims, stating that Hlophe’s behaviour was inappropriate and unwelcome. She further alleged that her refusal to comply with these advances led to subsequent victimisation and a campaign to tarnish her reputation within the party.
Phadi’s letter, which circulated widely on social media, included the following assertion:
“I would like to put it on record that these accusations have been escalating since the Deputy President (Cde John Hlophe) made sexual advances towards me that I did not appreciate.”
She also emphasised her commitment to ethical leadership, stating:
“As a leader in uMkhonto weSizwe, I take matters of ethics and morality very seriously and with the mandate to serve and deliver to our people.”
In subsequent media interactions, Phadi challenged Hlophe to undergo a lie-detector test to substantiate her claims, expressing her willingness to do the same. She asserted that such measures would reveal the truth and uphold justice within the party.
Dr Hlophe’s Legal Response
In response to these allegations, Dr Hlophe has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. Through his legal representatives, he has issued a formal letter to Phadi, demanding an immediate retraction of her statements and a public apology. The letter warns that failure to comply will result in legal action for defamation.
The legal correspondence outlines Hlophe’s position, stating that the allegations are baseless and have caused significant harm to his personal and professional reputation. It emphasises that the claims have not only damaged his standing within the MKP but have also had broader implications for his public image.
Party Dynamics and Reactions
The MKP’s internal dynamics have been significantly impacted by this dispute. Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndlela addressed the situation in an interview with Newzroom Afrika, providing insight into the leadership’s perspective.
Ndlela acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations but questioned their timing and context. He highlighted that Phadi had been dismissed from her position due to alleged misconduct, including financial irregularities and intimidation tactics during party meetings. Ndlela stated that these internal disciplinary actions were unrelated to her allegations against Hlophe.
“Mary Phadi must not be painted as a person who is innocent here,” Ndlela remarked. “She was given an opportunity to make representations to the national leadership, of which she totally, again, denied to do so.”
He further noted that the party had not formally received Phadi’s letter addressed to President Zuma but assured that the leadership would take the matter seriously if and when it is officially presented.
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