Mpofu Rejects Claim That MKP Demanded Ramaphosa’s Removal for Coalition Talks

Advocate Dali Mpofu, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party’s coalition negotiator, has rejected reports that the party demanded President Cyril Ramaphosa’s removal as ANC leader before any coalition deal could be discussed. He called the claim a clear misrepresentation of the MKP’s position after the 2024 general elections.

Speaking as parties begin talks following last week’s local government elections, Mpofu said the focus must stay on local issues and service delivery. He pointed out that Ramaphosa is neither a mayor nor a councillor in any municipality, so dragging national leadership battles into current talks makes little sense.

“This is about local government and making sure services are delivered,” Mpofu said. “Political differences matter, but they should not dominate these discussions.”

The MKP performed strongly in the 2026 municipal elections, especially in KwaZulu-Natal, where it secured the biggest share of votes. It now leads in several councils, including eThekwini, but fell short of outright majorities in more than 130 municipalities nationwide. This has forced parties into coalition negotiations across the country.

Party president Jacob Zuma has appointed a seven-member national negotiating team that includes Mpofu, First Deputy President Duduzane Zuma, Tony Yengeni and others. The team will handle all talks and make recommendations, but Zuma retains the final say on any agreement.

Mpofu confirmed the party will enter discussions without set preconditions and is open to hearing what other parties offer. While the MKP has previously ruled out working with the Democratic Alliance, it remains willing to engage parties that share similar values, including the ANC, IFP and EFF.

In eThekwini, where the MKP holds the largest number of seats, residents are watching closely. Water, electricity, roads and refuse collection remain top concerns, and any coalition will be judged on whether it improves basic services.

Political analysts say Mpofu’s clarification removes one major sticking point and could open the door for talks with the ANC in key metros. With councils due to be established soon, parties have limited time to form stable governments that can start delivering for communities.

The MKP has made it clear that any deal must advance its mandate and put residents first. As negotiations gather pace, attention turns to whether parties can set aside past differences and focus on the practical work of running municipalities.

Source: https://x.com/SABCNews/status/2120057929248170343?a=5F87EZ_NjRYqT6tiW8Y&s=19

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