On Tuesday, June 25th, South Africa witnessed the swearing-in of 59 politicians as the newly appointed members of the 7th parliament under the GNU administration. A significant majority of these new members, 58 in total, belong to the newly formed third-largest party, Mkhonto Wesizwe, which is led by former president Jacob Zuma. The only exception is one ANC member of parliament, the former Minister of Sports and Arts.

This event marked a notable return to politics for several individuals who are now lawmakers under the Mkhonto Wesizwe party. Among the newly sworn-in members are former Western Cape judge president John Hlophe, who had previously been stripped of his judicial credentials by the same parliament, and BLF leader Andile Mxigatama, a former EFF member. Other notable members include former president Zuma’s daughter Duduzile Sambuka-Zuma, Roy Van Rooyen, and Nhlamulo Ndhlela.

The swearing-in ceremony was also attended by former politician Pindile Gwala. Speaking to the media, Hon. John Hlophe clarified that he is not the leader of the MK party; instead, former President Zuma is the head of the party. However, Hon. Hlophe will serve as the leader of the MK party in parliament.

According to MK Party caucus leader Dr. John Hlophe, the party intends to pursue legal action against the IEC’s declaration of the election results, which they believe were rigged. Initially, MK Party members had notified South Africa’s parliament that they would not attend the swearing-in ceremony due to their belief that the elections were not free and fair. However, they ultimately reversed their decision based on advice from their party’s legal team.