In a stark warning, Gayton McKenzie, the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), expressed serious concerns about the potential rise of Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party). He highlighted the necessity of synergy within the Government of National Unity (GNU) to stave off what he described as a “tsunami” of political upheaval.
In an insightful interview with BizNews, McKenzie reflected on his participation in a recent panel discussion alongside prominent political figures, including Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen, Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) leader Velenkosini Hlabisa, and ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba. During this event, the MK Party’s potential influence was a significant topic of debate.
“Everyone on stage insisted that Zuma poses no threat. I countered, saying they were not being honest and were out of touch with reality. Zuma will emerge as a formidable force,” McKenzie declared, noting that the political landscape is shifting.
He foresees that Jacob Zuma’s political reach could greatly expand in the run-up to the 2026 local government elections. “If they think Zuma is coming like a tornado now, just wait until 2026; it will be a tsunami. He is working tirelessly,” McKenzie asserted.
McKenzie’s remarks underscore a growing concern that Zuma’s resurgence could significantly alter the South African political landscape. “People may not want to accept this, but we need to be realistic. Zuma is recruiting former ‘State Capture’ affiliates and criminals, those who have substantial followings, which is essential in politics,” he explained.
He urged the ANC to be vigilant, warning, “If they are not careful, Zuma could lead the largest political party in the country. The GNU is their only hope against Zuma’s rise, not the ANC alone.”
McKenzie emphasized that the ANC risks losing its political dominance if the GNU fails to meet its commitments and enhance service delivery. He noted that the MK Party is attracting high-profile figures from various political backgrounds, including former members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the ANC.
Recently, significant additions to the MK Party have included former EFF Member of Parliament and former Public Protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, as well as former KwaZulu-Natal premier and ANC veteran Willies Mchunu. These shifts indicate a realignment within South African politics that could have profound implications for the ANC’s future.
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