‘Disillusioned' MK Party Medics Programme leader, Dr Chauke, has resigned
Umkhonto weSizwe Party Dr Innocent Chauke departs from the Umkhonto weSizwe Party amid internal conflicts
Image: IOLGraphic, Itumeleng English/IndependentNewspapers
Dr Innocent Chauke, co-founder, coordinator, and chief health professional of the Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) Medics Programme - an initiative conducting health screenings nationwide - has announced his departure from the party.
Chauke revealed his decision in an interview with IOL on Wednesday, citing dissatisfaction and disillusionment with the organisation's current state.
His departure comes barely a month after the party announced the redeployment of Floyd Shivambu, who was removed as secretary general to be an ordinary member of the party, following an 'unsanctioned' visit to the fugitive pastor Prophet Shepherd Bushiri in Malawi.
'After reflecting on the organisation's internal issues, I realised that this has become a personal project for certain individuals close to the echelons of power,' Chauke explained.
'Many volunteers, including myself, have invested personal resources into our work. Yet, information about the misuse of funds and internal conflicts has come to light, which is demoralising.
'It's unfair to those who dedicate themselves when some have access to financial details and information that should be confidential.'
Chauke expressed that the recent announcement of a consultative process led by Shivambu prompted his exit.
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'When Shivambu announced the Mayibuye consultative process, we felt it was necessary to step back because we could no longer identify with the organisation's current direction,' he said.
'After consulting with those I lead, I decided to participate in this process, believing it might help us understand whether South Africa needs a new political entity.'
Despite his departure, Chauke reassured supporters that the MK Party Medics Programme would continue to serve the community without interruption.
'Even amid political differences, our commitment to providing essential services remains unwavering,' he affirmed.
Meanwhile, the internal discord within the MK Party escalated into a public spat involving Shivambu and the party's spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela.
Shivambu recently accused Ndhlela of substance abuse, claiming he is 'always on drugs and high on alcohol,' allegations that have sparked outrage and legal action.
Ndhlela's legal team, Ndou Inc Attorneys, issued a stern letter of demand on June 24, requiring Shivambu to retract his statements within 48 hours and apologise.
The legal notice contended that Shivambu's accusations are false and defamatory, demanding a public retraction that confirms the statements' falsity and expresses regret.
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