Abel Tau, a notable figure in South African politics, has recently made headlines by switching allegiances to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma.
This move marks another significant shift in the political landscape, as Tau joins a growing list of prominent politicians who have left their original parties.
Background on Tau’s Political Journey
Abel Tau’s political career has been quite eventful.
He previously served as the acting mayor of Tshwane and was a key leader within ActionSA in Gauteng.
However, his journey took a sharp turn in November 2022 when ActionSA terminated his membership.
This decision came after he was placed on leave in October due to serious allegations of attempted rape.
The claims involved an incident where Tau allegedly made unwanted advances toward a friend’s wife, who bravely resisted his attempts.
After his dismissal from ActionSA, Tau established a new political movement called the United Africans Transformation (UAT).
However, his political journey didn’t stop there.
Joining the MK Party
On October 9, 2024, during a gathering at the Garden Court Hotel in Tshwane, Abel Tau was introduced as one of the latest members of the MK Party.
His transition from UAT to MK represents yet another evolution in his political affiliations, further solidifying his presence in the political arena.
The announcement was captured on video, highlighting his move to a party with deep historical roots in the country.
Highlights of Tau’s Political Career
Tau’s political career is marked by several notable positions and transitions:
- He began as a DA councillor and eventually became the regional chairperson in Tshwane, but he resigned in 2020 to join Herman Mashaba’s ActionSA.
- In November 2019, while still with the DA, Tau was appointed as acting mayor of Tshwane after the previous mayor was placed on special leave due to a scandal involving another council member.
- By December 2021, he was appointed as the MMC for Human Settlements by former Tshwane mayor Randall Williams.
- Following the serious allegations against him in late 2022, ActionSA ended his membership.
- In January 2023, he launched the United Africans Transformation, only to leave it behind in June 2023 to start The Transformation Alliance (TTA).
What Lies Ahead?
As Abel Tau embarks on this new chapter with the MK Party, many are left wondering what the future holds for him and his political ambitions.
With a history of rapid changes and bold moves, Tau’s next steps will certainly be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.