The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) in KwaZulu-Natal is awaiting final approval from party leader Jacob Zuma and Secretary-General Sibonelo Nomvalo on whether Zandile Gumede will be their mayoral candidate for the eThekwini Municipality.Gumede, a former ANC mayor removed in 2019 over corruption charges, recently joined the MKP after years of political uncertainty.Her potential candidacy has sparked speculation, especially given her legal battles over the R320 million Durban Solid Waste tender scandal.

The MKP's provincial convener, Willies Mchunu, revealed that Gumede's appointment was delayed to ensure she received a position of influence rather than becoming an ordinary member.Despite her legal troubles, she remains popular within ANC structures, which supported her in court.

The ANC's Secretary-General, Fikile Mbalula, acknowledged the MKP's interest in her as a mayoral candidate but dismissed concerns about her joining rival parties.

Other ANC members, including Mondli Mthembu and Stanley Moonsamy, have also defected to the MKP, highlighting growing political realignments in the region.