The Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has criticised 10 expelled Members of Parliament (MPs) for their public reaction to their expulsion, labelling their conduct as “disingenuous” and out of line with the party’s discipline.
This comes after a total of 18 MKP members were expelled from the party. However, 10 of the ex-MKP MPs who were sacked from the National Assembly took the matter to the Western Cape High Court. However, they lost their bid to be reinstated in court.
In an interview on Newsroom Afrika, Ndhlela said that the MPs’ initial remarks were misleading. He emphasised that their role as MPs was always intended to be a temporary measure.
“It’s disingenuous of them to have made such remarks in the beginning. They put the cup before the horse and misled the public in the press briefing,” Ndhlela said.
Ndhlela defended the party’s decision, asserting that the MPs had been given a chance to address their issues in a civil manner.
“We would do nothing of that nature. We engaged with these members in a conducive discussion. They knew exactly what was coming, so their reaction was out of tune with the disciplines of the party,” he said.
He further criticised the MPs for their sense of entitlement and accused them of opportunism.
“These are just recalcitrant members who are ill-disciplined. They should have engaged with the party leadership, and this could have been resolved,” Ndhlela said.
He added, “This is a selfless role; you can’t volunteer and then think you’re an employee. No one is an employee here.”
The 10 sacked MPs were replaced by the likes of Brian Molefe, Lucky Montana, Siyabonga Gama and others.
Furthermore, regarding the MPs’ potential legal challenges, Ndhlela made it clear that the party would not tolerate attempts to undermine its decisions.
“If they were to go to court, MKP’s stance is clear. We are tired of being taken to court by individuals who know they will lose,” he said.
Ndhlela also touched upon the party’s leadership and decision-making processes.
He acknowledged that while the interim leadership played a role in assigning responsibilities, final decisions were made with the Jacob Zuma’s authority.
“Zuma’s first position was that the approach should not be punitive. However, when it comes to power and decision-making, we guide him and share insights,” he said.
Ndhlela also highlighted the president’s constitutional powers, drawing a parallel with the national Judicial Services Commission (JSC) appointments.
‘’Its not a lack of democracy in the party at all that decisions were made that way.’’
Ndhlela reaffirmed the party’s commitment to its core mission.
“We need to focus on what we're here for. These side shows are nothing but distractions that do not deserve even the court’s attention.’’
Ndhlela said the 10 MPs will remain expelled, and their future interactions with the party will determine any further actions,” he said.
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