JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — Brumelda Zuma, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, has been sworn in as a Member of Parliament, representing the opposition uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.
Her appointment comes less than two weeks after her half-sister, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, resigned amid allegations she tricked 17 South Africans into fighting as mercenaries in Ukraine — charges she denies.
Brumelda’s Role
- Sworn in alongside three other MK members.
- Holds a degree in public administration.
- Pledged to focus on ensuring South Africans have “good public services.”
Duduzile’s Controversy
- Accused of luring men aged 20–39 to Russia “under false pretences.”
- Criminal complaint filed by another half-sister, Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, who said eight of the men were her relatives.
- Currently on trial for terrorism-related charges linked to 2021 protests.
- Denies all allegations, claiming she believed the men were going for “lawful training.”
Political Context
Jacob Zuma formed MK in 2023 after a fallout with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
- MK came third in South Africa’s 2024 general election.
- It became the main opposition party after the second-largest party joined Ramaphosa’s coalition government.
Brumelda’s swearing-in underscores Zuma’s determination to keep his family represented in parliament, even as Duduzile faces mounting legal challenges.