By: Zilungile Mkhize
Former MK Party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu has announced the launch of a national consultation process aimed at forming a new political movement.
Shivambu was recently removed from his senior position following a controversial visit to Shepherd Bushiri’s Enlightened Christian Gathering church in Malawi. Bushiri, a self-proclaimed prophet and fugitive, faces charges of fraud, rape, and bail violations in South Africa. Shivambu’s trip was reportedly unsanctioned by the MK Party, sparking widespread criticism and leading to his demotion.
Speaking at a media briefing, Shivambu said the goal is to build a democratic and honest party that presents a genuine alternative to existing political formations. However, he emphasised that he is not leaving the MK Party.
His remarks come amid internal divisions within MK, which have intensified following his demotion. Senior party leaders, including Jacob Zuma, cited disciplinary concerns and the need to uphold the party’s constitution as reasons for his removal. The party’s Women’s League has also condemned the Malawi trip, highlighting the reputational damage, particularly in relation to gender-based violence issues.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi earlier described Shivambu’s visit to Bushiri’s church as “a blatant act of disrespect toward South Africa’s legal system”, saying it undermines public confidence in the rule of law.
Despite his reassignment to a lesser parliamentary role, Shivambu appears determined to chart a new political course. The consultation process, he said, will engage communities, activists, and civil society organisations to explore what he described as “a much-needed alternative to stale politics and power struggles”.
The move is being closely watched by political analysts, who see it as a test of Shivambu’s credibility following his recent fall from favour within MK. It could also deepen factional tensions in a party already navigating internal rifts, with some members reportedly backing rival leadership figures.
Whether the consultation leads to a breakaway formation or a reinvention of his political trajectory remains to be seen.
