The African National Congress (ANC) has downplayed concerns over former eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede joining Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), stating she poses no real threat to their dominance in the region.

Despite rumors that Gumede could be a key player for the MKP in upcoming local government elections, ANC officials argue her political inactivity over seven years renders her ineffective.

Thanduxolo Sabelo, the ANC eThekwini task team coordinator, emphasized the party’s reliance on collective strength rather than individual leaders, citing historical resilience since 1912.Gumede, who was removed as mayor in 2019 due to corruption charges, remains a controversial figure.While she was re-elected to the ANC regional conference in 2022, her arrest and subsequent legal battles have kept her in the public eye.The MKP’s decision to align with Gumede has also drawn other ANC defectors, including Mondli Mthembu and Stanley Moonsamy.Meanwhile, the ANC has expelled a councillor for alleged DA ties, showcasing its efforts to consolidate power ahead of November’s elections.The situation underscores ongoing tensions within South Africa’s political landscape as parties vie for influence in key municipalities.