uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party has written to inform its former Mpumalanga Convenor Mary Phadi of her “cautionary suspension,” citing various allegations against her.

In a letter dated January 29, 2025, addressed to Phadi, the MK party stated that Phadi disregarded an official organisational decision, behaving in a manner that disrupted unity within the party, and contravened the MK rules when she disregarded Mpumalanga Convenor advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane’s appointment by MK President Zuma in October last year.

“MK party hereby inform you of your possible suspension as a result of serious allegations against you relating to Providing misleading information to society at large, in contravention of Section 3(1)(f) MK Code of Conduct through presenting yourself as the Convener of MKP Mpumalanga.

“Abuse and misappropriation of funds in an elected office in contravention of Section 3(1)(n)and MK Code of Conduct.

“In this regard, we record that a criminal case of fraud and theft has been opened by the MKP based on the findings of the Treasurer General on this matter. The case was opened at the Middelburg Mpumalanga station in November 2024 under CAS 386/11/2024.”

The party also said that Phadi brought the organization into disrepute by lodging legal proceedings against MKP without exhausting the internal remedies.

It also indicated that If the allegations are proven under disciplinary proceedings, then Phadi will face sanctions, including the same, which may result in the Cancellation of her membership and face expulsion.

“MKP believes that it is necessary to suspend you to prevent further financial losses, other losses, and harm that the MKP and the State may incur as a result of your continued association with the party, and Given the possibility that you may interfere with or hamper further investigations relating to the allegation/s mentioned above.

“In terms of Section 6 of the Disciplinary Code, you are hereby notified of the allegations against you and may, within 48 hours following receipt hereof, provide the Secretary-General with representations as to the merit of the allegations against you and the reasons, if any, as to why the disciplinary inquiry against you should not proceed.”

While suspended, Phadi is prohibited from participating in any party leadership duties and is required to take special leave from her position at the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature.

“You are prohibited from communicating with other members of the MKP insofar as this is practical and will be allowed to resume communication with other members of the MKP to arrange for a fellow member to represent you and to prepare your response to the allegations made against you as may be applicable.

“This cautionary suspension remains strictly confidential, and you may not discuss the same with any party save for any agent or professional service provider who may be incidental to preparing a response hereunder,” read the letter

Phadi did not respond to questions from IOL.

IOL Politics

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