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Controversial Appointment: Jacob Zuma Selects Joe Ndhlela, Convicted Fraudster, as MK Party’s National Organizer

Published November 25, 2024
2 months ago

In a decision that has stirred considerable controversy within South African political circles, former President Jacob Zuma, currently leading the UMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, has appointed Joe Ndhlela, a convicted fraudster, as the national organizer of the party. Ndhlela replaces Floyd Shivambu, who was recently elevated to the role of secretary-general.





Joe Ndhlela, father to the MK Party’s spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela, officially joined the party as a volunteer on December 16. Described as instrumental in sculpting the party's national strategic framework and training manual, Ndhlela was serving as the chief operations officer for MK Party since April 2024, before his latest appointment.


This decision has raised eyebrows due to Ndhlela's criminal record dating back to his tenure at Transnet, one of Africa's largest freight logistics firms. In 2002, he was convicted and sentenced for multiple counts of fraud and a Companies Act contravention. The fraud involved a funeral policy scheme for Transnet employees, with Ndhlela - also known to be the brother of former SARS commissioner Tom Moyane - receiving R682,520 in commissions illegally.


Ndhlela’s tumultuous political career includes a lengthy 40-year stint with the African National Congress (ANC) from which he resigned in February 2021. His political journey continued with a brief stint at Gayton McKenzie’s Patriotic Alliance (PA), which he left in November 2023 citing concerns over racial bias and political favoritism within the party.


The appointment comes at a critical time for the MK Party, which is striving to solidify its position on the South African political landscape. Magasela Mzobe, MK Party’s head of presidency, stated that the decision to appoint Ndhlela followed in-depth consultations with the party’s national high command. He emphasized that Ndhlela’s experience and commitment to the party's cause were crucial factors in his appointment.


The reaction to this appointment has been mixed, with some seeing it as a bold move to incorporate experienced individuals into the party, regardless of their past, while others criticize it as indicative of persistent issues in political accountability and transparency within South Africa.


Political analysts are closely monitoring this development, pondering its implications for the MK Party's future directions and its impact on South African politics at large, especially with national elections looming on the horizon.


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