The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has informed its former Mpumalanga Convenor, Mary Phadi, of her “cautionary suspension” amid serious allegations of misconduct. In a letter dated January 29, 2025, the party outlined the grounds for her suspension, citing violations of the MK Code of Conduct and a series of actions that have allegedly harmed the unity and reputation of the organization.
The letter accused Phadi of disregarding an official decision made by the MK President, Jacob Zuma, when she challenged the appointment of advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane as the Mpumalanga Convenor in October 2024. This, the party claimed, disrupted internal cohesion and contravened the party’s established rules.
The MK party outlined several key allegations against Phadi, including the provision of misleading information to the public, presenting herself as the Convenor of MKP Mpumalanga despite the appointment of Mkhwebane. According to the MK Code of Conduct, this misrepresentation falls under Section 3(1)(f), which addresses such violations. Phadi is also accused of the abuse and misappropriation of funds in her elected office, in violation of Section 3(1)(n) of the MK Code. These serious allegations have prompted the MK party to open a criminal case of fraud and theft, based on findings by the party’s Treasurer General. The case was filed at the Middelburg Police Station in November 2024 under CAS 386/11/2024.
In addition to these financial concerns, the MK party expressed that Phadi’s actions had brought disrepute to the organization. The letter emphasized that Phadi had taken legal action against the MKP without exhausting internal party remedies, further escalating tensions within the party. As a result, the MK party indicated that if the allegations are substantiated during disciplinary proceedings, Phadi could face severe sanctions, including the possible cancellation of her membership or expulsion from the party.
The letter further stated that Phadi’s suspension was necessary to prevent any additional financial or reputational harm to the MKP, as well as to protect the interests of the party and the state. It was also noted that her continued association with the party could potentially interfere with ongoing investigations into the allegations.
In accordance with Section 6 of the party’s Disciplinary Code, Phadi was given 48 hours to respond to the allegations and provide any reasons why the disciplinary process should not proceed. The letter made it clear that during her suspension, Phadi was prohibited from engaging in any party leadership duties and would be required to take special leave from her position in the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature.
Additionally, Phadi was instructed not to communicate with other MKP members unless it was to arrange for a representative to assist with preparing her response to the charges. The letter also emphasized the confidentiality of the suspension, advising Phadi not to discuss the matter with anyone except for relevant professional service providers assisting in her defense.
As of now, Phadi has not publicly responded to the allegations or the suspension. The MK party’s move to suspend her is part of an ongoing effort to ensure the integrity of the organization and its leadership, as well as to maintain internal unity during this turbulent period. The case continues to evolve, with further developments expected as the disciplinary proceedings unfold.
