The uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (MKP) has come out strongly against political analyst Prince Mashele following his criticism of musician-turned-parliamentarian Hon. G.E. Kobane, popularly known as Papa Penny. The remarks, delivered in a public statement authored by MK Party’s Dr Nolubabalo Mcinga, accuse Mashele of elitism, intellectual arrogance, and a misunderstanding of South Africa’s democratic principles.
Mashele recently questioned the fitness of Kobane to serve in Parliament, reportedly referencing his lack of formal academic qualifications. The MK Party’s response was swift and unfiltered.
“Parliament is not an academic institution—it is a legislative body where the voices of ordinary citizens are represented,” wrote Dr Mcinga. “To earn a seat in Parliament, one must secure at least 45,000 votes from the people.”
The statement challenges the notion that academic credentials should determine one’s place in public office, pointing to historical figures such as Paul Kruger, John Vorster, PW Botha, and former President Jacob Zuma, who held office without formal university degrees. Dr Mcinga highlighted Zuma’s record on free higher education and economic transformation as examples of leadership rooted in action rather than academia.
Mashele, a known political commentator and author, is accused in the letter of promoting “colonial thinking” by equating intelligence with Western education standards. The MK Party further claims Mashele serves as a “mouthpiece” for those opposed to black leadership.
“You were hired to attack black leaders, to discredit black organizations,” Mcinga stated. “You call me an ‘idiot,’ yet you are the one blindly working against your own people.”
The response emphasized the constitutional framework that governs South Africa, underscoring that public office is open to any citizen chosen by the electorate. The MK Party reaffirmed its support for Kobane’s position in Parliament, stating that his mandate is drawn directly from the people.
Dr Mcinga concluded by urging Mashele to seek public support if he wishes to enter Parliament: “Go secure 45,000 votes and fight for your own seat. Until then, keep my name out of your mouth.”
