The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) is gearing up to celebrate its first anniversary as a political force in South Africa, marking a year of impressive growth and accomplishments. Since its formation on 16 December 2023, the MKP has quickly emerged as a prominent player in South Africa’s political landscape, gaining significant traction across various provinces.
In a press conference held in Durban on Wednesday, MKP spokesperson Floyd Shivambu highlighted the party’s progress, calling it “dynamic political and organizational growth.” Within its first year, MKP has positioned itself as the third-largest political party in the country, securing representation in seven out of nine provincial legislatures. “This speaks volumes about the faith South Africans have in our message of revolution and liberation,” Shivambu remarked.
The first anniversary of MKP falls on 16 December, a date of profound historical importance for South Africa. It marks both the Battle of Blood River (1838) and the formation of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) in 1961, the armed wing of the ANC. “We are proud to carry the legacy of MK, which has fought for the liberation of all South Africans,” Shivambu added.
To celebrate this milestone, the MKP has planned a series of events across the country, beginning with a major rally in Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng, on 30 November 2024. “Ekurhuleni showed strong support for our party in the 2024 general elections, and we want to acknowledge that,” Shivambu said. In the region, over 14% of voters supported MKP, and the party aims to become the dominant political force by the 2026 local elections.
On 1 December 2024, MKP will host another key event in the Mkhondo Local Municipality, Mpumalanga, where the party secured over 16% of the vote in the 29 May elections. Deputy President Mandlakayise Hlophe will address attendees.
The highlight of the anniversary celebrations will be a large rally at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on 15 December 2024. Shivambu noted the overwhelming support MKP received in the eThekwini region, where it won over 80 wards in the 2024 elections. “We’re excited to celebrate with our supporters here,” he said.
The celebrations will culminate in a gala dinner on 16 December 2024 at the Olive Convention Centre in eThekwini. Former president and MKP commander Jacob Zuma will address the gathering, which will include dignitaries and supporters from across the country. “This dinner will reflect on our journey and look ahead to what’s next,” Shivambu explained.
In addition to these celebrations, MKP has announced the establishment of its headquarters in Marshalltown, Johannesburg, with plans to expand to every province. “We’re not here for the short term; we’re building a lasting movement for the liberation of all South Africans,” Shivambu stated.
As it celebrates its first year, MKP remains committed to its revolutionary agenda. The party continues to oppose the current government of national unity, which it sees as a partnership between those who represent apartheid-era interests and former liberation leaders. “We are working in the best interests of all people in this country – black, brown, and white,” Shivambu concluded.
