Former president Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MKP) is gaining momentum as a serious contender in the upcoming general elections, as evidenced by its recent performance in by-elections.
In Mpumalanga, the MKP made an impressive debut, securing the second position and outperforming established parties such as the IFP and EFF.
The by-election took place in Ward 4 of the Govan Mbeki Municipality, under the Gert Sibande district. This ward became vacant after the tragic deaths of ANC councillor Simphiwe Sindelo and another individual in December 2023.
Despite the small registered voter base of 2,558, the MKP managed to secure 28% of the votes, while the ANC retained the ward with 50.84% of the votes.
This success in Mpumalanga follows the MKP’s strong showing in recent by-elections in KwaZulu-Natal. In Ward 2 of uPhongolo, previously an IFP stronghold, the MKP attracted an impressive 687 votes out of a total of 2,446.
Although the IFP won the ward with 36.39% of the votes, it marked a significant decline from their 48.37% win in the 2021 local government elections. Similarly, in Ward 8 of the AbaQulusi Municipality, another IFP stronghold, the MKP secured 211 votes, while the winning party, the IFP, received 505 votes.
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These positive results have led pollsters to predict a strong showing for the MKP in KwaZulu-Natal. A recent poll by the Social Research Foundation (SRF) indicated a potential drop in ANC support in the province, with the MKP polling at 24%.
This suggests that the MKP is making inroads into the ANC’s base in KwaZulu-Natal and could potentially secure representation in the National Assembly after the upcoming elections.
In a statement on social media, the MKP expressed their gratitude and claimed to be “the only choice for the people.” With limited resources and no financial donations, the party attributes its success to their genuine commitment to serving the people.
The rise of the uMkhonto we Sizwe Party as a formidable contender in by-elections highlights the shifting political landscape in South Africa.
As the general elections draw near, it will be interesting to see how the MKP’s momentum continues to grow and whether it can translate into substantial support on a national level.
 is gaining momentum as a serious contender in the upcoming general elections. The MKP recently performed well in by-elections in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal, outperforming established parties.){kind=link}