Former president Jacob Zuma has removed Sibonelo Nomvalo from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s parliamentary caucus, a day after relieving him of his duties as the party’s secretary-general.
In a letter addressed to Nomvalo, dated 22 October 2026, Zuma confirmed that the decision to remove him as secretary-general took immediate effect. He also informed Nomvalo that he was being removed as a member of the party’s caucus in the National Assembly.
The decision follows a list of concerns raised by the party regarding Nomvalo’s leadership and administration.
Zuma outlines reasons for Nomvalo’s removal
In the letter, Zuma cited concerns relating to the councillor selection process, the establishment of high-level deployment committees without the knowledge of the party’s senior leadership, delays in campaign materials and changes to the parliamentary whippery that were allegedly not communicated to party leadership.
Other concerns included internal factionalism and questions surrounding alleged dual remuneration from the National Assembly and the party.
“Accordingly, you are also removed as a member of the uMkhonto WeSizwe caucus in the National Assembly,” Zuma wrote.
He requested that Nomvalo cooperate with the relevant structures to ensure a smooth handover of his duties and responsibilities.
Despite the decision, Zuma acknowledged Nomvalo’s contribution to the party and wished him well in his future endeavours.
“I thank you for your contribution to MK Party and wish you well in your future endeavours.”
Leadership changes within the MK Party
Nomvalo’s removal as secretary-general was announced on 22 October, with the party appointing Lindiwe Mtshali as acting secretary-general. National spokesperson Sifiso Mahlangu was also assigned additional responsibilities associated with the office of the deputy secretary-general while retaining his spokesperson position. (IOL)
The party said the changes were intended to strengthen organisational coordination, communication and accountability.
Nomvalo’s removal from the MK Party caucus should be distinguished from removal as a Member of Parliament: the letter states that he is no longer part of the party’s parliamentary caucus, but does not itself announce that his parliamentary seat has been vacated.
The development marks a further change in the party’s leadership as it prepares for the upcoming local government elections.
