Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
20 May 2024 | 22:28 SAST
2-minute read

Image: IOL

This past weekend, the MK party released its manifesto at the historic Orlando Stadium in Soweto.

The event drew a large crowd and marked a significant moment for the party, as it seeks to position itself as a key player in South Africa’s political landscape.

Political Analyst Professor Bheki Mngomezulu discussed the significance of the event and its location on Radio Islam International.

“This was a carefully thought through decision. Given the history of the ANC, we recall that when the late Oliver Tambo, who operated as the leader of the ANC, was in exile for over 30 years, Orlando Stadium was used to address the South African masses for the very first time,” he explained. “Launching the manifesto here is a way of tracing back the steps the ANC has gone through, and by extension, the MK has gone through.”

The event was well-attended, although there were speculations about the origins of the crowd. Reports suggested that many attendees were bussed in from KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a claim that didn’t seem to concern Professor Mngomezulu.

“Where people came from does not really matter, because we have seen all political parties, whenever they launch their manifestos, they bring people from all over,” he noted. “This indicates that the party speaks to people across the country, not just a particular constituency.”

The MK party’s manifesto itself was unconventional, presented as a “people’s mandate” and delivered primarily in isiZulu, diverging from the typical use of English in such events. This choice was seen as an inclusive move.

“Former President Zuma was making a statement that it’s possible to present a manifesto using one of the local languages. Some might argue this excludes others, but English also excludes those who don’t understand it,” commented Professor Mngomezulu.

The issue of funding and the motivations behind it also came under discussion. The MK party has been transparent about its financial backing.

“They are in business and are saying that the MK party will bring them business. They take 40% of the proceeds and give 60% to the party. This open declaration distinguishes them from other parties that might be funded clandestinely,” Professor Mngomezulu said.

With regards to factions within the MK Party, Mngomezulu said that it is a concern not unique to the party, and the critical factor will be the leadership’s ability to manage these divisions and maintain stability.

“The extent to which factions within the party might destabilise it depends on the calibre of the current leadership,” Mngomezulu said.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat here.