Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) provincial convener Busisiwe Mkhwebane has confirmed that peace has been restored within the party’s Mpumalanga legislature caucus following a tense internal dispute.
However, members of the caucus say some issues still need “structured follow-up and monitoring” to ensure a lasting resolution.
This follows a recent letter of complaint sent by the caucus to the MKP national organiser, Joe Ndhlela, raising concerns about Mkhwebane’s conduct, including abrupt meeting calls, threats of removal, and a climate of fear among members.
Letter of complaint leaked
While Mkhwebane believes the matter is now behind them, saying unity has been restored following a meeting on Monday, the caucus disagrees.
Mkhwebane said it was uncalled for to have the letter leaked before the issues could be discussed.
While denying calling last-minute meetings, she emphasised that members of the provincial legislatures should always be ready to attend to urgent matters of the party and not have an attitude towards efforts to unite and grow the MKP.
“Some people were scared that they would lose their positions due to hearsay, I think. They need to understand that I do not have those powers. People of their calibre know the constitution of the party, and the constitution is clear.
“It is clear that the people who shared this letter, seemingly in an effort to cause chaos, are angry about the removal of Mary Phadi, who never attended any meetings,” said Mkhwebane.
Space for dialogue created
The MKP chief whip, Tshepo Sikhosana, speaking on behalf of the caucus, confirmed to Sunday World that the meeting did open a space for dialogue but insisted that the issues are not yet fully resolved.
Sikhosana confirmed that a meeting was held on Monday to address the concerns of some members of the party.
“The letter to the national organiser was submitted as a collective expression of concern from the caucus.
“It was motivated by repeated incidents that undermined effective coordination and created discomfort among members, including abrupt meeting calls, threats of removal, and disrespectful conduct.
“Our intention was to preserve unity and professionalism within the party structures and to protect the integrity of our roles as public representatives,” said Sikhosana.
He said issues of concern were raised, including the climate of fear, respect in communication, and the manner in which meetings are convened.
Engaging in internal processes
Sikhosana noted that the dialogue was a positive step towards resolution.
“We acknowledge the convenor’s sentiment and share the hope for progress. However, while steps have been taken in the right direction, we believe some issues still require structured follow-up and monitoring to ensure lasting resolution.
“All is sorted. It is an aspiration we are working toward, rather than a current state of affairs.
“Trust and unity are foundational in any revolutionary movement. While strains did occur, our collective commitment to the MKP and its mission remains intact.
“We are engaging in ongoing internal processes to rebuild confidence, guided by discipline, transparency, and collective leadership,” he added.
He affirmed that the caucus is willing to work under the leadership of Mkhwebane to build unity, stability, and success for the party.
