By Zuko Komisa

- MK Party President Jacob Zuma has elevated his son, Duduzane Zuma, to the party’s second-highest executive position as part of a major structural overhaul.
- Duduzane replaces former First Deputy President John Hlophe, who has been relieved of his executive duties with immediate effect.
- The appointment coincides with a wider shake-up of top officials and internal structures intended to consolidate party leadership.
uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) President Jacob Zuma has appointed his son, Duduzane Zuma, as the party’s First Deputy President with immediate effect.
Announced on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, the high-profile appointment places Duduzane second in command within the organization’s executive hierarchy.
Duduzane steps into the role previously held by John Hlophe, who was relieved of his responsibilities alongside National Chairperson Nkosinathi Nhleko and Deputy Secretary-General Nomsa Dlamini.
Alongside Duduzane’s elevation, the broader executive reorganisation introduces Reverend Phakathi as National Chairperson, Tony Yengeni as Second Deputy President, and Lindiwe Mtshali as Deputy Secretary General.
As part of the administrative realignment, Zuma also dissolved the Strategic Presidential Team disavowing any outstanding financial liabilities incurred by the unit and reinstated the Presidential Task Team under his direct supervision.
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