Floyd Shivambu axed as secretary-general of MK party
Floyd Shivambu has been removed from his position as secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party following backlash over his controversial visit to Malawi, where he met with self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri.
The meeting, which was not sanctioned by the party, triggered urgent deliberations led by party president Jacob Zuma and other top officials.
In a statement released after the high-level meeting, MK Party deputy chairperson Nkosinathi Nhleko confirmed the decision, saying, “After lengthy discussions and inputs from the national officials, it was concluded that the actions by the secretary-general were against the spirit and the prescripts of the party constitution.”
According to the party, Shivambu’s unsanctioned trip breached internal regulations, particularly those forbidding international engagements that clash with the organisation’s core agenda.
The party cited provisions under “offences” which prohibit members from participating in foreign activities that contradict MK’s mission or that of allied movements.
The trip also drew criticism due to its timing, coinciding with Malawi’s court ruling in favour of extraditing Bushiri and his wife Mary, who are wanted in South Africa after skipping bail on serious charges.
The leadership reportedly considered the broader implications of the visit, including the potential reputational damage to the party.
“In light of the seriousness of this matter and its implications for the image, values and principles of the MK Party, the president and the national officials were left with no option but to act swiftly,” Nhleko added.
While Shivambu has been removed from his executive post, the party emphasized that he is not being cast out but rather “redeployed” to parliament.
Nhleko said Shivambu’s extensive political experience would strengthen the party’s role in the National Assembly, where it now functions as the official opposition.
“Shivambu carries a wealth of experience as a former MP,” said Nhleko.
“We thank and acknowledge him for the role he has played in contributing to the advancement of the organisation.”
Addressing the media after the announcement, Shivambu confirmed he accepted the decision, stating, “I confirm that the national officials have taken a decision which I fully accept as a disciplined member.
We have been redeployed to the National Assembly and will continue to play the role of advancing the agenda and programme of the MK Party.”
He concluded by expressing gratitude to Zuma, the leadership, and party supporters: “It has been an invaluable role that we have played and a humbling experience we have been assigned by the president.”
