Tony Yengeni Defends Jacob Zuma After Stage Fall, Calls For ‘Birthday Present’ At Polls

Tony Yengeni has called on MK Party supporters to rally behind former president Jacob Zuma in the upcoming elections, saying the best gift they could give him would be a decisive victory at the polls.

Speaking during a Youth Day commemoration at Mayine Sports Grounds in Ermelo, Msukaligwa, on Tuesday, Yengeni praised Zuma’s resilience after the veteran politician briefly stumbled while dancing on stage during the celebrations.

Jacob Zuma’s Health Becomes Talking Point At MK Party Event

Jacob Zuma drew attention during the MK Party gathering after he lost his footing while dancing in front of supporters. The incident prompted concern among some attendees who reacted with audible shock.

Addressing the crowd afterwards, Yengeni dismissed concerns and pointed to Zuma’s continued public appearances and mobility.

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“All of you must vote for Nxamalala (Zuma) next year. Jacob Zuma will be 85 years old, 85, alive and walking on his own two feet. Now you must give him a birthday present, and the best birthday present for Comrade Jacob Zuma will be a two-thirds majority come the 4th of November.”

MK Party Continues To Build Support Around Jacob Zuma

The MK Party has emerged as a major force in South African politics since its formation. Much of its support has been linked to Zuma’s influence and popularity among sections of the electorate.

A poll commissioned by The Brenthurst Foundation in 2024 placed the MK Party as the country’s third-largest political organisation. The survey recorded support of 15%, behind the ANC on 39% and the DA on 27%.

MK Party Dominates In KwaZulu-Natal Ahead Of Elections

The MK Party has achieved its strongest results in KwaZulu-Natal, where it became the largest political party. The organisation secured 45% of the vote in the province, underlining its growing influence in the region.

Yengeni used the Youth Day event to encourage supporters to maintain that momentum ahead of the next elections. His remarks centred on delivering a strong electoral performance that he said would serve as a fitting tribute to Zuma as he approaches his 85th birthday.