The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) has issued a precautionary suspension to the party's deputy president and leader of the MKP parliamentary caucus Dr John Hlophe, which effectively, nullifies Des Van Rooyen’s appointment as the parliamentary chief whip.

On Wednesday, the party announced that van Rooyen will replace Collen Makhubele with immediate effect.

The party said in a statement that Hlophe will be suspended from both his leadership roles with immediate effect, pending a full investigation into his conduct.

The party clarified that MKP president Jacob Zuma arrived back from Burkina Faso, met with the MKP's national officials and received a briefing about changes effected at the National Assembly “without a collective consultation”.

MKP head of presidency Magasela Mzobe said the suspension was meant to “affirm and send a strong message” on the principle of collective leadership across all structures within the party.

He assured that the party’s leadership remained “firmly united and committed” to upholding MKP principles.

“…this decision should be viewed as a demonstration of the party's unwavering commitment to internal party discipline and collective leadership. The MK Party wishes to assure all its members, supporters and the broader South African public that the organization remains stable, focused and steadfast in pursuing its mission to bring about genuine transformation and justice for the people of South Africa,” he said.