Mary Phadi has been a notable figure within South African politics, particularly with her involvement in the uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party.
Mary Phadi was the Convener of the MK Party in Mpumalanga. However, she has faced significant internal conflicts within the party, including legal battles over her position.
She was reinstated as the provincial leader by a court order but has since been removed from the party, accused of hiring hitmen, misappropriating funds, and bringing the organisation into disrepute.
Phadi has been embroiled in legal disputes, including an attempt to challenge her removal from the party leadership.
She has publicly stated her intention to remain with the MK Party, asserting her leadership and accusing others within the party, like Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, of being in contempt of court regarding her reinstatement.
There are recent allegations that Dr. John Hlophe, the Deputy President of the MK Party, demanded sexual favours from Mary Phadi.
This has sparked discussions on social media and within political circles about the conduct of party leaders and the handling of such serious allegations.
Mary Phadi says she is not forcing herself to be in the uMkhonto we Sizwe party.
“I am here to stay in uMkhonto we Sizwe, and I am not going to move at any time,” says Phadi.
Last year, the Mpumalanga High Court in Mbombela reinstated Mary Phadi as the provincial convener of the MK Party and its leader in the legislature, overturning her expulsion, but the MK Party intends to appeal the High Court ruling reinstating her.
