The MK Party (MKP) claims it is ready to restore Johannesburg to its former glory, citing its recent by-election performance as proof of its capability.
Responding to reports that DA federal chair Helen Zille may run for mayor in 2026, MKP spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela dismissed the idea as “nonsensical”, arguing that a Capetonian should not run a city she doesn’t reside in.
“Given the vast availability of qualified men and women who reside in the city of Johannesburg, it is nonsensical to consider the possibility of a Capetonian resident holding mayoral capacity in a city she is alien to,” Nhlamulo said.
[MEDIA STATEMENT]: UMKHONTO WESIZWE PARTY REJECTS HELEN ZILLE AS COJ MAYORAL CANDIDATE. pic.twitter.com/BL2LNStY2w
— uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) June 9, 2025
The MKP emphasised its commitment to reclaiming the dignity of black people and vowed to present a rebuilding plan for the city.
“One of our most important values of the MK Party’s people’s mandate is to reclaim the dignity of black people. We are informed by this mandate and urge the people of the city of Johannesburg to know the MK Party is more than capable of leading the city and ensuring reliable representatives who are familiar with the lived realities of those residing in the city are elected,” said Nhlamulo.
The party blamed the ANC and current mayor Dada Morero for the city’s poor state and criticised the DA for considering Zille for the role.
“It is vital for us to remind Zille and her cronies that the state of disarray found in Johannesburg is courtesy of their absent mayor Dada Morero, and has resulted in the city being brought to its knees.
“Morero and the ANC should hang their heads in shame for emboldening a white supremacist and giving her the confidence to believe she can adequately run the city.”
First published by African Insider
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
Also see: Ntsiki Mazwai protests against Helen Zille’s Johannesburg mayorship
