Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane declares herself the legitimate uMkhonto weSizwe Party convener in Mpumalanga.
Image: Youth Village
Former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane has officially taken over as the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party convener in Mpumalanga, ending months of internal disputes over the position.
Mkhwebane’s appointment follows a prolonged leadership tussle with businesswoman Mary Phadi, who was previously removed from the role amid allegations linking her to an assassination plot. Despite her dismissal by MK Party leader Jacob Zuma in November 2024, Phadi challenged the decision in court and briefly regained her position after a High Court ruling, which the party is currently appealing.
A media briefing held at Anew Hotel today, Mkhwebane confirmed her leadership and outlined plans to strengthen the party’s presence in the province.
“On 25 October 2024, President Jacob Zuma appointed me as the provincial convener, and the provincial task team was announced on 13 November,” Mkhwebane said. She added that the party was now stable and preparing for a strong showing in the 2026 local government elections.
“The MK Party is active across all sub-regions and ready to make a significant impact. We are proud of our dedicated ground forces who continue to drive our mission forward,” she said.
The newly announced provincial leadership team includes Mkhwebane as convener, Charles Masombuka as deputy convener, Abednego Mkhatshwa as coordinator, Dr. Nelisiwe Msibi as deputy coordinator, Skhwameni Nkuna as organiser, Njabulu Ka Chibi Mthabela as deputy organiser, Donald Maphanga as fundraiser, and Mbalenhle Masinga as deputy fundraiser.
