08-07-2025
Court rules Mary Phadi is no longer a member of MKP, clearing path for Mkhwebane
Mary Phadi is no longer a member of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP).
Image: Oupa Mokoena / Independent Media
The Mbombela High Court has handed down a significant ruling, declaring that Mary Phadi is no longer a member of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) and is also no longer a lawful member of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature.
This judgment came after a counter-application from the MKP, supported by party president Jacob Zuma's detailed affidavit, which argued that Phadi's actions had violated the party's constitution.
The court affirmed that Phadi's membership had been validly terminated after she defied party structures, insulted officials, and organised rival rallies.
According to the ruling, these actions were in direct contravention of the MKP's internal rules and values. The ruling represents a significant blow to Phadi's political future, removing her from both the party and the legislature.
The court's decision cited section 106(3)(c) of the Constitution, which stipulates that a person must cease to hold a seat in the provincial legislature if they are no longer a member of the party that nominated them.
In addition to losing her position, Phadi was also ordered to cover the legal costs associated with both her original contempt of court application and the MKP's counter-application. This decision further weakens her standing, both legally and politically. Though Mkhwebane was not a formal party to the court proceedings, the ruling clears the way for her to assume the leadership roles once held by Phadi.
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These roles include that of MKP leader in the Mpumalanga legislature and provincial convenor. With Phadi officially removed from the equation, Mkhwebane's political future within the party appears to be solidified. Insiders suggest that her leadership could be pivotal in stabilising the MKP, which has been struggling with internal divisions and factionalism.
The ruling also signals the end of months of internal turmoil within the MKP, which saw the party split into rival factions. This division led to poor electoral performance and significant public embarrassment for the party.
With the court ruling now behind them, MKP officials believe the party can focus on reuniting its fractured provincial branches. Phadi's departure marks a fresh start, allowing Mkhwebane and other key leaders to move forward with their plans for stabilising the party's internal structures.'The judgment today restored the soul of MKP in Mpumalanga,' Mkhwebane said following the court's decision.
'No one is above the Constitution of MKP. People join MKP as individuals, but members must read, understand, and abide by the constitution. Thanks to President Zuma for bringing stability to Mpumalanga.'Mkhwebane's statements underscore the importance of unity within the party, with a clear emphasis on the party's constitutional rules.
She emphasised that the MKP's foundation must remain strong for the party to regain its political strength. Phadi, who was not present at the court ruling and has yet to comment publicly on the decision, has been embroiled in controversy for several months.
Her actions, including her defiance of MKP's leadership and efforts to organise parallel events, had sparked serious concern within the party.
While Phadi's political allies may contest the ruling, it is clear that the court's decision has sent a strong message about the importance of adhering to party structures and constitutional principles.
The judgment is expected to have far-reaching consequences, especially in terms of party unity and the broader political landscape in Mpumalanga. With the MKP's leadership now back in control of its deployments and structures, the party will likely begin focusing on rebuilding and strengthening its position in the province.
As the MKP seeks to recover from the internal strife that has plagued it in recent months, the focus now shifts to rebuilding the party's reputation and ensuring that future conflicts are avoided. Mkhwebane's role in this recovery process will be critical, as she is now seen as the face of the party's efforts to move forward.
