uMkhonto Wesizwe Political Party: Info, Membership Strength & How To Become a Member

December 19, 2023 / Kings

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The uMkhonto Wesizwe Political Party is a new party in South Africa unveiled by former President Jacob Zuma on Saturday, 16th December at the DOCC/YMCA Orlando East Hall, Soweto, Johannesburg during a press conference that had the presence of both local and international media representatives. The official launch of the party will take place January 16th 2024 at Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

Background
uMkhonto Wesizwe first appeared in 1961 as the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). Formed by Nelson Mandela, the group acted as ANC’s major instrumental in their fight against apartheid.

Following the end of Apartheid, uMkhonto Wesizwe was disbanded on 16 December 1993 at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, Gauteng. Despite the dissolution of the group, uMkhonto Wesizwe still hold lots of importance in the hearts of many ANC members.

The Launch of uMkhonto Wesizwe As A Political Party
On 16th December 2023, President Jacob Zuma launched uMkhonto Wesizwe as a political party to rival the ANC and other political parties in the country.

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President Zuma, who had always been involved in the activities of uMkhonto Wesizwe since the year 1962, is now the leader of the newly launched party and he is promising to carry on with the liberation of the African people and positioning the party as South Africa’s leading party.

Date Registered
Although launched on 16th December, uMkhonto Wesizwe was registered with the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) on the 7th September 2023 having met with all of the requirements.

Membership Strength
As at December 2023, the uMkhonto Wesizwe boost of a membership of 1 million users, who registered via their website the day it was launched, this is according to data published on uMkhonto Wesizwe’s official handles.

How To Become A Member
Interested persons who seek to become a member of uMkhonto Wesizwe are expected to sign-up via their official website. A Mandatory donation of R10 or more is to be paid into the party’s account before proceeding with the complete registration.

The uMkhonto Wesizwe registration form includes South African ID Number, Cell Phone Number, employment status, Race, language and other important information.

Steps to Register

  1. Visit https://mkparty.org.za/
  2. Input your unique Username, password and other relevant information
  3. Select your current and correct contact information and address
  4. Make a payment of R10 or above to the account details provided on the website
  5. Upload a proof of payment
  6. Agree to their terms of service.

That’s all! You will be contacted by a representative of uMkhonto Wesizwe for further information and briefing.

Criticism
Several members of members of the ANC have criticized the recently unveiled political party, dismissing it as an illegitimate incarnation of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) and lacks the spirit & strength to act on its behalf.

Suspension of Jacob Zuma
Jacob Zuma was suspended from the ANC by the ANC NEC Lekgotla that was held in Boksburg on January 29, 2024. He was given 48 hours to respond to the suspension decision.