By Thabo Mosia
Floyd Shivambu, the newly appointed Secretary-General of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party), shared his dedication to establishing a disciplined and sustainable organisation in an exclusive interview with SABC News. He emphasised that his leadership would be shaped under the mentorship of MK Party President Jacob Zuma. This appointment marks a fresh chapter for Shivambu, who recently left the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to join the MK Party. Shivambu takes on this role following the resignation of Dr Sifiso Maseko.
Background of Shivambu’s Appointment
The appointment of Shivambu as MK Party Secretary-General was confirmed after consultations between former President Jacob Zuma and MK Party officials. Magasela Mzobe, the Head of the Presidency for the MK Party, shared in a statement that Zuma had conducted extensive discussions with party leaders before officially making the decision. The appointment follows the resignation of Dr. Sifiso Maseko, who requested to step down to return to his duties as Chief Director in the Gauteng Department of Health.
Dr. Maseko’s departure from the role of Secretary-General was reportedly amicable. In a statement released on 29 October, Mzobe explained, “The President of uMkhonto weSizwe Party, Commander General Jacob Zuma, received a letter of resignation from Secretary General Commander Dr. Sifiso Maseko on Tuesday, requesting to be relieved from his responsibilities.” Maseko will continue to serve as a member of the MK Party’s National High Command, the highest decision-making body within the organisation.
Floyd Shivambu’s Transition from EFF to MK Party
Floyd Shivambu’s political journey has seen him transition from the EFF, where he served as Deputy President and co-founder, to the MK Party, marking a significant shift in his career. Shivambu’s move to the MK Party aligns with Jacob Zuma’s vision for a disciplined, military-inspired political movement, rooted in the legacy of the anti-apartheid struggle. His resignation from the EFF in August sparked questions about his next steps, which have now culminated in his appointment as Secretary-General of the MK Party.
Reflecting on his appointment, Shivambu told SABC News that his new role represents a deep commitment to Zuma’s vision. “Our goal is to build a stable and sustainable organisation that represents the people across all corners of South Africa,” Shivambu stated. He expressed confidence in his capacity to meet the demands of the role, with a focus on expanding the MK Party’s influence nationwide.
The Selection Process and Zuma’s Influence
Shivambu’s appointment did not come without its challenges. Insiders reveal that while Zuma had expressed a preference for Shivambu, other party leaders had initially sought a more discreet selection process. Several candidates were reportedly interviewed for the position, including Joe Ndlela and Ndumiso Matlala. Ultimately, Zuma’s influence played a critical role in the final decision, underscoring his continued authority within the MK Party’s leadership structure.
Zuma’s endorsement of Shivambu was seen as a move to solidify his vision for the party’s future. In a statement following the appointment, Zuma expressed “full confidence in Secretary-General Nyiko Floyd Shivambu and the entire leadership of uMkhonto weSizwe Party,” signalling his trust in Shivambu’s ability to steer the organisation in line with its founding principles.
Former EFF Members Joining the MK Party
Shivambu’s appointment comes amid a notable shift in political alliances, with other former EFF members also joining the MK Party. Among them are high-profile figures like Advocate Dali Mpofu and Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, both of whom resigned from the EFF and aligned themselves with the MK Party. Their decision to join the MK Party reflects a broader trend among former EFF members, who are drawn by the party’s disciplined structure and commitment to African self-determination.
The transition of Mpofu, Mkhwebane, and Shivambu to the MK Party strengthens the party’s positioning as a growing force within South African politics. Their experience and influence could help the MK Party expand its reach, as it continues to attract supporters from a wide array of political backgrounds.
Public Response and Reactions from Political Analysts
Shivambu’s appointment has sparked mixed reactions among political analysts and the South African public. Supporters of the MK Party view Shivambu as a strong leader with the experience needed to advance the organisation’s goals, while others question his ability to adapt to the MK Party’s unique approach. Some analysts argue that Shivambu’s move reflects a consolidation of power by Zuma, who is working to ensure the MK Party’s leadership aligns closely with his vision.
On social media, reactions to Shivambu’s appointment have been varied, with supporters praising his commitment to African empowerment, while critics question his political philosophy. The shift from EFF to MK Party has prompted debates about Shivambu’s motivations, with some commentators suggesting that his departure from the EFF may have been influenced by internal disagreements.
Shivambu’s Vision for the MK Party
As Secretary-General, Shivambu has outlined a vision focused on building a united and disciplined organisation. He expressed a strong commitment to the MK Party’s principles, emphasising the importance of a cohesive structure that remains insulated from internal factions and external influences. “President Jacob Zuma knows what he’s doing in building this organisation,” Shivambu stated, highlighting Zuma’s role in guiding the party’s formative stages.
In his interview, Shivambu underscored the importance of party unity, noting that the MK Party’s objective is to represent the people of South Africa comprehensively. “Our immediate task, as defined in the Constitution, is to build the presence of the organisation in all corners of South Africa,” he explained, pointing to the strategic vision for the party’s growth.
Moving Forward: Strengthening the MK Party’s National Presence
Shivambu’s leadership comes with the responsibility of establishing a strong national footprint for the MK Party. Currently, the party has significant support in provinces such as Mpumalanga, Gauteng, and KwaZulu-Natal. However, Shivambu has committed to expanding this reach to ensure that the MK Party becomes a national force by the 2029 general elections.
In line with this goal, Shivambu has prioritised direct engagement with local communities, emphasising that his work will be grounded in grassroots outreach rather than media appearances. “The Secretary-General’s work is not in media rooms and press conferences; it’s on the ground, where we interact with the people,” Shivambu stated.
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