On Sunday, 27 April, former president Jacob Zuma, now leader of the Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) Party, delivered a passionate speech during the Solomon Kalushi Mahlangu memorial lecture held at Solomon Mahlangu Square in Mamelodi West. Zuma paid tribute to Mahlangu, describing him as a brave and loving hero whose sacrifice continues to inspire the nation.
During his address, Zuma emphasized the struggles that black South Africans still face, saying, “There is no one suffering like a black person in South Africa. If our ancestors could rise from the dead and see what is happening in the country, they would run back to their graves.” His remarks highlighted the deep frustration he feels toward the current state of the country.
Zuma reminded attendees that the Umkhonto Wesizwe Liberation War Veterans Association was founded by iconic leaders like the late Nelson Mandela. He spoke passionately about reclaiming the nation’s wealth, which he claims is still out of the hands of ordinary South Africans. He promised that under MK Party rule, no one would go hungry, and criminals would be decisively dealt with.
“We must use our politics to build the party and heal our people. When I see crowds like this, I wish we were voting tomorrow,” Zuma said, expressing optimism about MK Party’s growing support. He noted that the party continues to welcome new members and remains committed to its mission.
Zuma also alleged that the MK Party was robbed during the previous national elections, claiming that their votes were stolen. According to him, the theft of their votes was part of a broader betrayal of black South Africans’ aspirations for true freedom.
“This is not the ANC we once knew,” Zuma declared. “The ANC has abandoned its principles. That’s why we started the MK Party. Black people are not yet truly free.” He further stated that the ANC of today bears no resemblance to the movement that fought against apartheid, bluntly concluding that “the ANC is dead.”
Despite his criticisms, Zuma said he would always consider himself a member of the ANC historically, but he would no longer cast his vote for it. Instead, he pledged his full support to the MK Party, which he said is feared across the country for its boldness and commitment to real change.
Portia Mahlangu, niece of Solomon Mahlangu, also spoke at the event and expressed her support for the MK Party, reinforcing the connection between the legacy of the struggle heroes and the new political movement.
Zuma’s fiery lecture served as both a tribute to a fallen hero and a rallying cry for those dissatisfied with the current political leadership. His message was clear: the MK Party, under his guidance, aims to build a new future rooted in justice, unity, and the original principles that once guided the liberation struggle.