The MK Party expelled Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and former spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the party announced. The expulsions follow allegations that Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela involved themselves in decisions regarding Muzi Ntshingila's illness. According to party sources, neither Zuma-Sambudla nor Ndhlela possessed the authority to make such decisions, leading to their removal from the organization.
Allegations Regarding Muzi Ntshingila
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela are alleged to have illegally transferred Muzi Ntshingila to another health facility without his family's knowledge. The MK Party stated that neither individual had the authority to involve themselves in matters relating to Ntshingila's illness or to separate him from his family. Ndhlela faced accusations of operating outside established party structures and acting without proper organisational authority. The MKP also alleged that Ntshingila's personal belongings were removed from his parliamentary residence without the knowledge of his relatives. "As a party, we extend our deepest apologies to the Ntshingila family for any distress caused during this difficult period," the MKP stated.
Undermining Party Discipline
The MKP accused Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela of conduct that undermined party discipline, deepened internal divisions, and defied organisational authority. The party stated that neither individual possessed any authority to involve themselves in matters concerning Muzi Ntshingila's illness or to separate him from his family. Zuma-Sambudla subsequently participated in social media commentary relating to the deceased, disregarding instructions from party leadership. The MKP argued that Zuma-Sambudla's statements promoted factional narratives, weakened confidence in collective leadership, and contributed to growing divisions within the organisation. The MKP formally terminated the memberships of Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela with immediate effect, invoking powers vested in party president Jacob Zuma. "As a party, we extend our deepest apologies to the Ntshingila family for any distress caused during this difficult period," the MKP added.
Party's Official Statement and Apology
Muzi Ntshingila died on June 4 at the age of 43 after a prolonged illness. Following complaints from the Ntshingila family, Parliamentary Leader Dr John Hlophe reportedly instructed Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla and Nhlamulo Ndhlela not to attend funeral proceedings and to refrain from public comments or social media posts relating to the deceased. The MKP stated, "The party notes that neither individual had any authority to involve themselves in matters relating to Ntshingila's illness or to separate him from his family." The MKP further alleged that Zuma-Sambudla repeatedly used public platforms and social media to challenge party decisions, question recognised leadership structures, and expose internal matters to public scrutiny. Ndhlela was accused by the MKP of convening and addressing media briefings without approval, misrepresenting party positions, and participating in activities that created uncertainty about official party processes and leadership arrangements. "As a party, we extend our deepest apologies to the Ntshingila family for any distress caused during this difficult period," the MKP added.
Broader Implications and Family Response
The MKP announced the immediate expulsion of Zuma-Sambudla and Ndhlela, stating their actions were fundamentally incompatible with the movement's values. The party added, "As a party, we extend our deepest apologies to the Ntshingila family for any distress caused during this difficult period." "The party notes that neither individual had any authority to involve themselves in matters relating to Ntshingila's illness or to separate him from his family," the MKP stated.
