By: Buhle Mbhele
The Chairperson of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), Nathi Nhleko, has defended the party’s decision to remove Floyd Shivambu from his position as Secretary-General, stating that the move aims to strengthen the party’s caucus in Parliament.
According to Nhleko, Shivambu contravened the party’s constitution by unilaterally deciding to visit controversial religious leader and fugitive Shepherd Bushiri in March. Bushiri, who fled South Africa in 2020 while facing charges of fraud and money laundering, remains a wanted figure, with the South African government actively seeking his extradition from Malawi.
Speaking to journalists in Umhlanga, north of Durban, on Tuesday, Nhleko said the disciplinary measure demonstrates the MK Party’s commitment to internal accountability and constitutional discipline.
“This is a necessary step to reinforce the integrity of the organisation and show that no one is above the constitution of the party,” Nhleko explained.
The MKP announced yesterday that Shivambu will continue to serve as a Member of the National Assembly, but will relinquish all responsibilities associated with the Secretariat with immediate effect.
The incident has sparked internal debate within the party, as well as renewed scrutiny of its leadership processes. Shivambu has not yet publicly responded to his demotion.
