Former uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party secretary-general, Floyd Shivambu, dropped a few bombshells during his press briefing in Gauteng on Thursday, where he announced plans to launch a new political party. 

Among some wild claims, Shivambu alluded to some in leadership who were linked to corruption, others fighting among themselves, and even someone sniffing drugs. 

Speaking to reporters at the Mhulu Boutique Hotel on Thursday, Shivambu exposed allegations of fund embezzlement and political sabotage, signalling a significant shift in his political journey.

Shivambu further claimed that he was targeted for attempting to halt the alleged siphoning of approximately R7 million per month from the party’s coffers.

“Zuma is surrounded by political scoundrels who exploit his kindness and gullibility,” Shivambu said.

“They fabricate fake intelligence reports to mislead him and justify their theft. This season, they’ve been withdrawing at least R7 million monthly from our coffers.”

He further alleged that these illicit activities were known internally and that party members had urged the perpetrators to cease their actions, fearing the party’s de-registration.

“We raised these issues internally because we want transparency and accountability. But instead of addressing the matter, I faced hostility when I intervened,” Shivambu added.

In a dramatic turn, Shivambu announced his intention to leave the MK Party and establish his political organisation.

“I am forming a new party — not funded by any individual but rooted in the collective will of South Africans,” he declared.

“Political parties should not be personal fiefdoms; they must represent enduring ideals beyond any single leader.”

He dismissed bizarre allegations circulating on social media about supernatural powers and conspiracies targeting Zuma as “absolute rubbish,” emphasising his commitment to rational politics and transparency.

In a candid and unfiltered tone, Shivambu also criticised certain party members for allegedly engaging in drug use and inappropriate behaviour, including tweeting late into the night.

While he did not specify names, these remarks highlighted the internal tensions and moral concerns he claims are plaguing the organisation.

Throughout his address, Shivambu vehemently denied any misuse of party funds during his tenure.

“I have never used party resources for personal travel or gain. All discussions around forming a new political entity are open and inclusive,” he insisted.

Shivambu took a swipe at his former party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), calling it a “cult” that lacks political integrity and ideology.

He said no self-respecting person would join it. “The EFF is a cult, I agree.”

Shivambu’s revelations come at a volatile time in South Africa’s political sphere, where allegations of corruption and factionalism have become commonplace.

The last straw was that he was not resigning from the MKP because it aligns with his political beliefs but he would open space for a new political party.

IOL has reached out to the MKP for comment. 

thabo.makwakwa@iol.co.za

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

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