Princess Nozwe Zulu, a former ANC municipal councillor, has thrown her support behind the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, a new political party endorsed by controversial former President Jacob Zuma. Zulu is among many voters disillusioned with the ANC due to issues such as corruption, lack of accountability, and arrogance within the party. The MK party, formed in 2023, has rapidly gained popularity in KZN, South Africa’s second most populous province, where polls indicate it could emerge as a major player in the upcoming election. Zuma’s endorsement of the MK has bolstered its appeal, tapping into the electorate’s frustrations with government performance.
The ANC, which has been in power since the end of apartheid, is facing challenges in the upcoming election with polls suggesting it may fall below 50 percent of the vote share for the first time. The MK party’s rise could further erode the ANC’s support, particularly in KZN. Zuma’s popularity among the Zulu community, the largest ethnic group in South Africa, has been a significant factor in the MK’s success. Zuma has criticized the ANC for being “sell-outs” and has called for changes to the constitution, arguing that it does not adequately represent the Black majority in the country.
Despite controversy surrounding Zuma’s tenure, including corruption allegations and legal issues, his support base remains strong, attracting voters like Princess Zulu who believe in his vision for change through the MK party. Many voters who previously benefited from state tenders under the ANC are now turning to the MK in hopes of reclaiming their leverage and challenging the status quo. The MK’s presence is also being felt by other political parties, such as the IFP and EFF, as voters seek alternative options in the upcoming election.
While some voters remain loyal to the ANC or other parties, the MK’s promise of change and a fresh approach to governance has resonated with many South Africans, particularly in KZN. The party’s focus on addressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, corruption, and lack of basic services like water and electricity has struck a chord with voters who feel let down by the ANC’s leadership. As election day approaches, the MK’s campaign is gaining momentum, with supporters like Nhlanhla Xulu, a former IFP activist, leading the charge to mobilize voters in their communities.
The upcoming election is shaping up to be a significant moment in South Africa’s political landscape, with the ANC facing tough competition from the MK party and other opposition groups. While Zuma’s influence in KZN and among the Zulu community is a major factor in the MK’s rise, the party’s appeal extends beyond his personal following. Voters like Nelly Msomi, who have felt the impact of government failures firsthand, are eager for change and see the MK as a viable option for addressing their concerns. As the election draws closer, the political landscape in South Africa is poised for a potential shift with the MK party emerging as a key player in the country’s democratic process.
