MK Party Goes To Parliament
By Karabo Marifi
Cape Town – Parliament has confirmed that the swearing-in of the 58 elected Members of the MK Party, who were unavailable during the first sitting of the National Assembly, will be held on 25 June 2024. This significant event follows the National and Provincial Elections, ensuring all members are legally officiated to perform their duties.
Constitutionally Mandated Swearing-In
Parliament’s statement underscores the constitutional mandate requiring Members of the National Assembly to swear or affirm faithfulness to the Republic and obedience to the Constitution before officially beginning their functions. The Chief Justice, or a designated judge, will preside over this inaugural swearing-in for the MK Party Members.
“This swearing-in of original nominees from the MK Party list will be presided over by the Chief Justice, or a judge designated by him, as this is the inaugural swearing-in of these Members following the National and Provincial Elections,” Parliament stated.
Moreover, the Speaker will administer the oath to Members who were nominated post the first sitting. Political parties are entitled to fill any vacancies on their candidates’ lists before the first swearing-in, ensuring full representation. The MK Party has supplemented its candidates list with 21 additional Members.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, 25 June 2024
- Time: 12:00
- Venue: Goodhope Chamber, Parliament
All necessary travel and accommodation logistics are being finalised in preparation for the ceremony.
John Hlophe Appointed as Chief Whip of MK Party
In a recent announcement, the former Western Cape Judge President, John Hlophe, has been appointed as the national chief whip of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) by Secretary-General Arthur Zwane. This follows Hlophe’s historical impeachment, marking a first in democratic South Africa.
MKP’s Meteoric Rise
Securing 58 seats in the latest elections, the MK Party, under the leadership of Jacob Zuma, initially boycotted the first parliamentary sitting, alleging electoral malpractice. Their 14.66% vote share has made them the third-largest political party, strong in KwaZulu-Natal, surpassing the EFF with over 2.3 million votes. Zuma’s disavowal of the ANC played a pivotal role in their unforeseen rise.
Internal Restructuring and Hlophe’s Role
In leaked correspondence, the MKP is seen undertaking substantial internal restructuring to streamline operations. Centralising key responsibilities temporarily, including financial management and procurement processes, is aimed at fortifying the party ahead of the local government elections.
Arthur Zwane conveyed Hlophe’s appointment and the strategic restructuring in a letter addressed to all caucuses:
“At this critical stage of our party’s development, the National Office has resolved to centralise key responsibilities and roles temporarily.”
The Significance of Hlophe’s Impeachment
John Hlophe’s removal from judicial office was a landmark event. President Cyril Ramaphosa, following a National Assembly resolution supported overwhelmingly by MPs including those from the ANC and DA, executed the decision under Section 177 of the Constitution. The charges dating back to 2008, where Hlophe attempted to influence Constitutional Court decisions involving Jacob Zuma, led to his impeachment.
The Judicial Conduct Tribunal deemed Hlophe’s actions as violations that undermined public confidence in the judicial system.
Judge Hlophe Joins MK Party
On 21 June 2024, the MK Party proudly announced Hlophe’s role as the new Leader in Parliament. Hlophe’s tenure as a legal luminary and his Pan-Africanist stance against systemic racism notably in the Western Cape has bolstered his image as an ideal leader for the MK Party.
Hlophe, the first black judge permanently appointed to the Western Cape High Court and later Judge President, brings extensive academic and judicial credentials, including a PhD from the University of Cambridge. Despite enduring years of alleged harassment, Hlophe remains resolute in his commitment to justice.
In their statement, the MK Party extolled Hlophe’s unwavering fight for justice and emphasised their goals of land expropriation without compensation and nationalising strategic industries. His expertise is anticipated to aid the MK Party in overcoming any forthcoming legal challenges from rival coalitions.
The MK Party’s statement read: “The MK Party is honoured by Judge Hlophe’s willingness to join us in our mission. His wisdom and activism will be instrumental in achieving the true and total freedom that has eluded our people for the last 30 years. Welcome aboard, Judge Hlophe.”
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