Zandile Gumede, the former mayor of Ethekwini, has officially joined the Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) and been appointed as deputy provincial convenor in KwaZulu-Natal.The announcement was made during a media briefing, marking her as the latest high-profile ANC defector.While Gumede declined to elaborate on her reasons for switching allegiance, she expressed gratitude for the warm welcome from the MKP leadership.

Secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo emphasized the party's openness to new members, particularly from the ANC, and called on them to actively campaign ahead of the November 4 elections.This move underscores ongoing political realignments in South Africa, with key figures leaving the ruling party to join opposition groups.Gumede's departure highlights growing tensions within the ANC and the shifting dynamics of the country's political landscape.Her appointment signals a strategic effort by the MKP to strengthen its presence in KZN, a province historically dominated by the ANC.The decision has sparked discussions about loyalty, governance, and the future of South Africa's political parties.