By Thabo Mosia
Johannesburg, 22 August 2024 – The political landscape in South Africa took a significant turn on Thursday when the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, under the leadership of former President Jacob Zuma, officially announced Floyd Shivambu as its new National Organiser. The announcement was made during a media briefing held at The Capital Empire in Sandton, marking a pivotal moment in the MK Party’s ongoing efforts to consolidate its position as a formidable political force.
Shivambu’s Strategic Role
Shivambu, a co-founder and former Deputy President of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), resigned from the EFF just last week, signaling a dramatic shift in his political career. His new role in the MK Party comes with a clear mandate: to strengthen and expand the party’s national structures. As the National Organiser, Shivambu will be responsible for not only organizing and developing the MK Party’s operational documents but also overseeing political education, policy development, and the monitoring and evaluation of governance among public representatives .
Speaking at the press briefing, MK Party Secretary-General Sifiso Maseko outlined the significant responsibilities that Shivambu will undertake. “Floyd will be crucial in assembling the best of society to demonstrate that the MK Party has the capacity to govern effectively. His role is not just symbolic but is integral to our strategic vision,” Maseko stated. The appointment comes at a time when the MK Party is restructuring its leadership to include a top eight officials, alongside 22 additional members of its national high command .
Zuma’s Endorsement and Praise
Jacob Zuma, who has been at the helm of the MK Party since its inception, praised Shivambu’s decision to join, describing him as an “honest and calculative” leader. Zuma emphasized that Shivambu’s appointment was not a mere political move but a strategic alignment that reflects the party’s revolutionary goals. “Floyd has demonstrated a commitment to the revolution, and his decision to join us is a testament to his belief in our shared vision for South Africa,” Zuma remarked during the media briefing .
Shivambu’s Stance on the EFF and Julius Malema
Shivambu did not shy away from addressing his departure from the EFF, particularly his relationship with EFF leader Julius Malema. In a pointed statement, Shivambu criticized the EFF’s current trajectory, suggesting that the party’s recent decline in electoral support was a sign of its waning influence. He argued that the formation of the MK Party was a necessary step to unify the “progressive caucus” in South Africa, which he believes is crucial for the future of black South Africans .
“The notion of small, unviable political parties is not sustainable. We need a unified front that can genuinely advance the revolutionary agenda, and the MK Party is positioned to lead that effort,” Shivambu stated. His comments were seen as a direct challenge to Malema, further deepening the rift between the former allies .
Reaction from the EFF and Sinawo Tambo
In response to Shivambu’s remarks, EFF MP Sinawo Tambo took to social media to express his disapproval. In a scathing post on X, Tambo accused Shivambu of abandoning the revolutionary ideals he once championed within the EFF. “You establish an organization, and then have the audacity to insinuate that it is suddenly a small and unviable ‘fiefdom’ after our first, small decline at polls?” Tambo wrote. He further criticized Shivambu’s decision to join the MK Party, suggesting that it was driven by personal ambition rather than a genuine commitment to the revolutionary cause .
The New MK Party Leadership
The MK Party’s new leadership structure was also unveiled at the briefing. Alongside Shivambu, the top eight officials include Zuma as President, Dr. John Hlophe as Deputy President, and Sifiso Maseko as Secretary-General. Other key appointments include Nombuso Mkhize as Deputy Secretary-General, Nkosinathi Nhleko as National Chairperson, Wilson Sebiloane as Deputy National Chairperson, and Menzi Ngubane as Treasurer General. This leadership collective is expected to guide the MK Party as it positions itself as a major player in South Africa’s political arena .
Julius Malema’s Response
Julius Malema, who has been at the forefront of the EFF since its inception, addressed the situation during a speech to the Gauteng Ground Forces. Malema acknowledged Shivambu’s departure but downplayed its impact on the EFF. He reiterated his commitment to the EFF’s revolutionary principles and warned against being distracted by those who have chosen a different path. “We will continue our fight for economic freedom. Those who have left us have made their choice, but the EFF remains steadfast,” Malema said .
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