Mary Phadi, a leader in Jacob Zuma’s MK Party, faced allegations of orchestrating an assassination plot against a party rival in Mpumalanga. Allegedly, Phadi arranged for hitmen to target the individual over internal disputes. Following the claims, she was dismissed after refusing an option to step down voluntarily. Her firing is part of broader disciplinary actions within the MK Party, which is managing rising tensions and controversies.

This incident has raised concerns about internal stability and governance within the organization.