Jacob Zuma has shaken up the MK Party leadership by axing Colleen Makhubele as Chief Whip. Although she has been removed from her position with immediate effect, Makhubele retains her seat as a Member of Parliament (MP).
The move, which was announced in the late hours of Monday, is part of a broader leadership restructuring ordered by former President Jacob Zuma and the party’s national officials.
This signals a tightening of internal discipline within the MKP as it has consolidated authority and prepared for an intensified role in parliament.
Makhubele’s sudden exit as Chief Whip has been accompanied by the appointment of Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi, the NCOP Chief Whip, as acting Chief Whip to oversee governance and liaise with the Speaker’s office.
In addition to Makhubele’s removal, the MK party also confirmed the removal of Mpiyakhe Limba from his role as Treasurer-General. Brian Molefe has been appointed as Limba’s successor, bringing experience in public administration and organisational leadership to the party.
BREAKING NEWS | Collen Makhubele has been removed as the MKP’s chief whip in Parliament. Mmabatho Mokoena-Zondi has been appointed as caretaker chief whip pic.twitter.com/4cNYKYyqBt
— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 12, 2026
The MK party indicated that Molefe possesses the strategic skills necessary for a vital role in the party’s development. These decisions are framed by the party as efforts to strengthen structures, uphold organisational discipline, and promote collective leadership.
The party aims to position itself as a vehicle for public frustration among South Africans who are disappointed by decades of unfulfilled promises and ongoing economic hardships.
Also see: MK Party Chaos: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Reacts to John Hlophe’s Suspension
Feature Image: Gettys
