The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party is formalising political structures in iLembe and now looks to solidify its foothold in the area.

MK were riding high after a mammoth debut election last year, with 45.35% of the provincial vote, but lacked the political infrastructure and boots on the ground of legacy political parties.

This was exacerbated by a move to disband all regional structures across KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) last October. They have since attempted to address the gaps however, ahead of a push for grassroots growth towards the 2026 Local Government Elections.

An iLembe regional office was constituted last Friday and will be led by regional convenor Bazil Ntuli, with Zibuse Makhoba serving as his deputy. Ntombifuthi Zulu, Sdudla Mhlongo, Bonakele Ndovela, Sanele Shandu, Sholephi Mathonsi and Mpume Luthuli were appointed to various other leadership roles. Former KZN premier Willies Mchunu was made provincial convenor.

The party also successfully poached their first sitting councillor in KwaDukuza last week, when African National Congress (ANC) councillor, Doeshie Govender, switched allegiances after resigning from his post. Notably, his Ward 28 (Shakaskraal), was the only ward won by the ANC in last year’s national elections. He is willing to contest the by-election forced by his resignation if chosen as the MK candidate.

Since the beginning of this year, MK has been actively doing pre-election campaigning in iLembe. First, they renovated the home of 54-year-old Ndwedwe resident, Lindiwe Maphumulo, whose roof had caved in. Then party members hosted a prayer for unity at the KwaDukuza Town Hall, while other members were spotted repairing potholes in Maphumulo.

MK iLembe regional co-ordinator, Ntombifuthi Zulu, said she was encouraged by the work of the party in 2025.

“We joined Umkhonto Wesizwe out of frustration with inadequate service delivery. We will work hard and continue to deliver for the residents. By doing so, we will emerge stronger in 2026,” she said.

“Our purpose in joining this party was to serve the people, not to seek positions. We must be willing to be led and maintain the same spirit that helped us campaign and win elections without leadership. That spirit should guide us all the time.”

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