The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party said it had removed Bonginkosi Khanyile as Youth League president as part of a “strategic redeployment”.
The party also announced the removal of other Youth League members, including deputy president Thapelo Maisha, Gaan Cibane, who served as interim secretary-general, as well as Philani Gazuzu Nduli, who held the position of Gauteng co-ordinator.
A letter dated April 9 reads: “Dear Cde Bonginkosi Education Khanyile, you are hereby removed from the position of national co-ordinator (of the) uMkhonto weSizwe Youth League (MKYL). This removal is effective from today.
“Your role going forward will be to be a normal member of the MKYL. You will be notified of your redeployment in due course. MK Party appreciates your role played thus far.”
In a statement on Wednesday, the Jacob Zuma-led party announced the “strategic redeployment” of Khanyile, Cibane, Maisha and Nduli, but did not provide an explanation.
The party said in a statement: “This decision comes after thoughtful consultations and is aimed at bolstering our efforts to achieve a transformative two-thirds majority.
“Our goal is clear, to facilitate land expropriation for the landless, tackle the challenge of load shedding, create sustainable employment opportunities for the youth, and addressing the pressing issues of poverty and inequality.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Khanyile, Cibane, Maisha, and Nduli for their invaluable contributions in their previous roles.
“Their dedication and leadership have laid a strong foundation for the positive changes we aspire to bring. As these young leaders embark on their new roles, we are inspired by their commitment and energy to focusing on garnering youth to support MK in these elections.”
In March, Khanyile, during a media briefing in Johannesburg, said there would be consequences if Zuma and the newly formed party were not allowed on the ballot paper, come election day next month.
Khanyile was speaking about the legal battle with the ANC over the trademark and registration of MKP, the party’s parliamentary candidates, and the MKP Youth League’s future.
“If they remove the MKP and president Zuma from the ballot as the face of the campaign and try to take our rights, there won’t be elections in South Africa,” he had said.
Attempts to get comment from Khanyile were unsuccessful at the time of going to print.
“These people have been expelled from the party for alleged defiance. I have been told that Khanyile will clarify his position in a day or two,” a source wanting to remain anonymous told The Star.
On the issue of Khanyile’s removal, political analyst Professor Sipho Seepe indicated that the party’s decision was consistent with a stance it took over a month ago.
“The removal of Bonginkosi Khanyile is consistent with the position that the party took when it signed the electoral code of ethics. The party has promised to deal with those of its members who are likely to bring it into disrepute,” he said.
The Star
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