The uMkhonto weSizwe party has fired Mzwandile Manyi from his role as chief whip in the National Assembly. Thi sis less than a year after his appointment. His dismissal was announced by National Assembly speaker Thoko Didiza during Tuesday’s parliamentary session – ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s appearance for a question-and-answer session with MPs.
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This dismissal comes months after reports and allegations of physical confrontation between him and deputy leader John Hlophe during a caucus meeting in February, where Hlophe accused Manyi of sabotaging his State of the Nation debate, which was drafted by Manyi. He has been replaced by former speaker of the City of Johannesburg council, Colleen Makhubele. In a letter circulating on WhatsApp, Manyi was informed of his removal through official party communication signed by deputy party president John Hlophe. “I am writing to inform you that, with immediate effect, you are hereby relieved of your duties as the chief whip of the MK party in the National Assembly,” the letter said. “This decision was made with careful consideration and in the interest of advancing the collective goals and objectives of our party. We are pleased to announce that Honourable Colleen Makhubele will assume the position of chief whip effective immediately.”
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Manyi was appointed to parliament in August 2024, after replacing Sihle Ngubane. This was seen as a move to stabilise the party’s parliamentary operations and ensure alignment with its leadership, including Zuma and Hlophe.
Makhubele has been described in party ranks as a rising figure and an effective communicator. She was elected to the City of Johannesburg council as part of the Congress of the People before aligning with the MK party ahead of the 2024 general elections.
Bongi Sikelo 