Revolutionary Rhetoric, Feudal Reality: Rethinking MK's Ideology

Beneath its populist and anti-establishment rhetoric, the MK Party harbours a deeply illiberal ideology rooted in monarchism, neo-feudalism, and Zulu ethno-nationalism...

Photo by Maxim Mox on Unsplash

The uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK) may present itself as a revolutionary force, but its ideology actually aligns with the right side of South Africa’s political spectrum. Beneath its populist and anti-establishment rhetoric lies a firm commitment to illiberal monarchism and neo-feudalism, complemented by an ethno-nationalist appeal rooted in Zulu identity.

Ideological core

At its core, MK is pro-monarchist, and it advocates for the creation of an illiberal system of political governance. Its president, Jacob Zuma, has claimed that traditional leaders have been relegated to ceremonial roles within the current constitutional framework, and that this needs to be addressed by overhauling the constitution. This would likely push the country toward a parliamentary democracy co-existing with an autocratic institution of traditional leadership, with both structures operating with unfettered power alongside each other.

The MK’s embrace of neo-feudalism is evident in its push to maintain the control of communal land by traditional leaders, as seen with the Ingonyama Trust. It seeks to preserve land under communal tenure with little to no reform in favour of individual ownership. In a system where both the legislature and traditional leadership already operate with unchecked authority, such an approach would risk exacerbating existing power abuses and foster a system ripe for corruption and patronage.

Ethno-nationalism – a cornerstone of appeal

A key component of MK’s appeal is its association with Zulu identity. Notwithstanding the denials by senior leaders and party members, Zuma’s political persona has reinforced this connection. Over decades in public life, he has cultivated a brand rooted in traditionalism by openly practicing polygamy, celebrating Zulu customs, and embracing traditional ways of living. It may not have been his explicit intention to portray himself as an ethnic leader or Zulu nationalist, but regardless this perception has taken hold. Many view him as a symbol of Zulu pride and leadership. We would do well to remember a time in 2006 when his supporters stood outside court wearing “100% Zulu Boy” T-shirts to demonstrate their backing. During his tenure as the president of the African National Congress, the party grew in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), as a sizeable portion of Inkatha Freedom Party voters shifted their allegiance. Today, this enduring sense of ethnic pride continues to animate MK in KZN, which is its political stronghold.

Looking beyond KZN

Beyond its stronghold in KZN, MK’s national appeal is driven by two further factors. One, an additional layer of Zuma’s persona, which is his outsider image. Two, the party’s adoption of left-wing populist rhetoric.

This layer of Zuma’s persona that portrays him as a defiant figure who stands against the political establishment has resonated with citizens that are frustrated by mainstream politics. Like US President Donald Trump, Zuma has cultivated an outsider image that appeals to popular disillusion.

This populist persona is further reinforced by the MK’s left-wing rhetoric, which champions polices such as nationalisation and the expropriation of land without compensation. These positions are tactical, and they are designed to position the party as a champion of ‘justice and equality,’ despite its lack of real commitment to those principles. The revolutionary language serves primarily to legitimise the party and present it as a credible alternative to the status quo.

Assessing growth and internal dynamics

What makes the rise of the MK particularly alarming is the context in which it is gaining traction. In last year’s general election in May, which was its first since being formed in December 2023, it secured around 14% of the national vote, thereby surpassing the Economic Freedom Fighters and establishing itself as the third-largest political party in the country. While this swift success signals significant momentum, there are already signs that the party’s foundation is precarious.

As political analyst Prince Mashele correctly observes, MK rests almost entirely on Zuma’s public persona. Should nature intervene, or age take its toll, his absence could trigger a leadership vacuum. Added to this is the reality of notable internal division between senior party leaders such as Duduzile Zuma and Floyd Shivambu, which raises serious questions about the sustainability of unity in the long-term.

Mapping the road ahead

Nevertheless, while its long-term durability is uncertain, MK remains a significant force in the country’s politics for the foreseeable future. Zuma continues to serve as its undisputed leader and, unless something changes dramatically, he is likely to remain its figurehead going into the 2029 national general election. In the meantime, the party’s ideological stance, which is centred around neo-feudalism and a form of monarchism that seeks to abolish constitutionalism, positions it as a disruptive force that will likely shape political discourse and influence policy debates in ways that could undermine and even subvert liberal principles.

There is, therefore, a pressing need to push back against MK’s ideological preferences and reaffirm the liberal values that have historically underpinned successful societies, which are: limited government, individual freedom, and secure private property rights. As the country continues to navigate uncertain political terrain, it is vital that these values remain central to discussions about our shared future.

Ayanda Sakhile Zulu holds a BSocSci in Political Studies from the University of Pretoria and is an intern at the Free Market Foundation.