The Umkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party is celebrating its first anniversary at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Sunday, a milestone moment marking the party’s rise since its formation.
The event, which promises a vibrant gathering, has seen the attendance of progressive political forces, but one notable absence has raised eyebrows — the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
Despite receiving an invitation to attend, the EFF, which has been part of the broader progressive caucus, failed to honour the invitation.
However, speaking to the media during a press conference on Thursday, secretary-general Marshall Dlamini said they did not receive the MK Party’s invitation to attend its first-anniversary celebration as it was announced.
“We did not receive an invitation and we will not attend the event,” he said at the time.
In contrast, the African Transformation Movement (ATM), another invited party, confirmed its attendance and mobilised members from KwaZulu-Natal to join, as they look to show solidarity with the MK Party.
Speaking to the media earlier this week, MKP Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu emphasised that the party had extended invitations to all members of the progressive caucus, including the EFF, ATM, and African National Congress.
According to Shivambu, these groups share similar political goals, making them “strategic friends” of the MK Party.
“We are extending the invitation to all the parties in the progressive caucus, including the EFF, National Coloured Congress (NCC), the United African Transformation (UAT), and the ATM. When they come, we will allow them the opportunity to convey their messages of support,” Shivambu said.
While the EFF's absence casts a shadow on the event’s unity, Shivambu remains resolute about the MK Party's future.
“We are focused on building the political future of our country,” he said .
Meanwhile, ATM leader Vuyo Zungula voiced his party's commitment to attending, urging party members in KwaZulu-Natal to come out in large numbers to ensure their visibility.
“As ATM, we have formally accepted the invitation as you agreed in Bloemfontein during the International Thanksgiving Service. Our members must attend in full force, and please ensure you sit together for maximum impact,” Zungula said.
ATM members have come out in number to support the MKP.
Sunday’s anniversary celebration is a momentous occasion for the MK Party, particularly in light of its impressive performance in KwaZulu-Natal during the May 29 national elections, where the province delivered the highest number of votes for the party.
IOL