By: Zilungile Mkhize
The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) has announced a major organisational restructuring ahead of the 2026 local government elections, including the establishment of a new Institute to oversee the party’s strategy, administration and political programmes.
Party leader Jacob Zuma announced the move following what the party described as an internal assessment aimed at strengthening ideological alignment, organisational coherence and electoral preparedness.
According to the party, the newly established Institute will coordinate leadership structures, guide policy direction and oversee mobilisation programmes across the country. The structure will report directly to Zuma.
The MK Party says the changes form part of a broader strategy to consolidate internal operations as the party prepares to expand its presence in municipalities nationwide ahead of the 2026 polls. The party made significant gains during the 2024 general elections, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, where it emerged as a strong political force.
Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela said the restructuring is intended to improve organisational discipline, governance and long-term electoral readiness.
“The Institute will assume full responsibility for the management and administration of the organisation. All discussions, engagements and official communication with President Zuma shall henceforth be conducted with members of the Institute.
“Furthermore, all organisational structures will now report directly to the Institute, which will assume responsibility for the review, alignment and strengthening of all organisational prescripts, governance frameworks, constitutional provisions and leadership structures of the MK Party in line with the strategic reorganisation agenda of the movement,” said Ndhlela.
