Hlophe put on ice following abrupt decision

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The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party) has placed its deputy president and parliamentary leader, John Hlophe, on ice following changes made at the national assembly without collective consultation.

This comes after the party issued a statement on Tuesday, announcing the appointment of Des van Rooyen as the new chief whip of parliament caucus replacing Colleen Makhubele.

Magasela Mzobe, head of the presidency, said the party’s President Jacob Zuma met with national officials upon his arrival from Burkina Faso, where he was briefed about the changes.

“The president has decided to issue a precautionary suspension to Hlophe from both his leadership roles with immediate effect, pending a full investigation into his conduct,” he stated.

According to Mzobe, this decision is intended to affirm and send a strong message about the principle of collective leadership across all structures within the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.

[MEDIA STATEMENT]: Statement of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party on the precautionary suspension of Deputy President Parliamentary Leader Dr. John Hlophe. pic.twitter.com/ca4lOOUYCs

— uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) November 5, 2025

Hlophe’s decision rescinded

He added; “Consequently, the decision made by Dr. Hlophe to remove Cde Colleen Makhubele and appoint Cde Des Van Rooyen is therefore nullified.

“The leadership of the MK Party remains firmly united and committed to upholding the principles of discipline, accountability, and collective decision-making as enshrined in the party constitution.

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“This decision should be viewed as a demonstration of the party’s unwavering commitment to internal party discipline and collective leadership.”