The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party has relieved Sibonelo Nomvalo of his duties as secretary-general, announcing a leadership reshuffle effective Thursday, 22 October 2026.
In a statement issued by the Office of the Party President, the party cited concerns relating to the councillor selection process, internal factionalism, dual remuneration and delays in campaign materials.
The party also raised concerns about changes within its parliamentary caucus and parliamentary administration that were allegedly not communicated to the President, National Officials and Presidency Collective.
Other issues cited include the establishment of high-level deployment committees without the knowledge of the relevant party leadership structures.
According to the statement, these matters raised concerns about organisational coordination, internal communication, accountability and compliance with established party procedures.
Lindiwe Mtshali appointed acting secretary-general
Following Nomvalo’s removal, Lindiwe Mtshali has been appointed acting secretary-general. She will work with National Chairperson Molisi Phakathi to oversee the party’s coordination, administration and organisational affairs.
National spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu will also take on additional responsibilities associated with the office of the deputy secretary-general, sharing those functions with Mtshali while retaining his position as spokesperson.
The party said the interim arrangement was intended to maintain continuity, strengthen coordination and accountability, and ensure the effective implementation of decisions taken by authorised leadership structures.
Nomvalo has been asked to cooperate with the relevant structures to facilitate an orderly handover of his responsibilities.
The party acknowledged his contribution and wished him well in his future endeavours.
The concerns outlined in the statement are the party’s stated reasons for the decision; the announcement does not, by itself, establish that any alleged procedural or administrative wrongdoing occurred.
