Although many critics believe former uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) secretary-general Floyd Shivambu is “too weak” and does not have what it takes to lead a political party, one political analyst argues he should not be underestimated.

Shivambu, who was recently removed from the MK Party’s parliamentary list and demoted from his post as secretary-general, held a press briefing last week, outlining his plans for a nationwide consultation process. 

He said he intends to engage with church leaders and community stakeholders to determine whether there is support for establishing a new political party.

IOL News previously reported that Shivambu’s announcement followed a report indicating the MK Party had excluded him from its list of Members of Parliament. 

However, Shivambu publicly criticised the move. 

In a surprising twist, the MK Party cited Shivambu’s unauthorised visit to Prophet Shepherd Bushiri in Malawi as a breach of party protocol, which they claimed led to his removal. 

However, Shivambu dismissed the explanation, alleging that he was sidelined for questioning the alleged embezzlement of R7 million in party funds.

“I was redeployed for daring to speak out against corruption within the party,” Shivambu said during the briefing. 

“Despite this, I remain committed to serving the people and will not leave the MK Party. I am exploring the possibility of forming a new political entity that reflects our shared values.”

He added that his motivation stems from a desire to promote transparency and accountability in South African politics.

Critics argue that he lacks the political clout to lead a new movement, especially given his prior roles in the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) as the deputy president and secretary general in the MK Party, during which he was accused of failing to address the country’s major challenges. 

“I don’t think Shivambu has what it takes to lead a political movement and address the challenges facing the country, because he failed to do so in the EFF and MK Party. He’s not going to make it, he’s too weak to lead a party, I think he should just join other parties instead…,” said Magret Mashita from Mokopane, in Limpopo.

Meanwhile, political analyst Siyabonga Ntombela said Shivambu should not be underestimated.

“If Floyd has the funds to start and register a party with the IEC, just like Hlaudi Motsoeneng, Duduzane Zuma, and many others did – so can he,” Ntombela told IOL News. 

“Floyd cannot be as weak as some claim. He’s entering a space that many – strong and weak, have fallen into…”

Shivambu recently posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) that 10,000 people had volunteered to be part of the consultation process for the potential formation of the new party. 

Asked if this signals genuine grassroots momentum or simply early-stage enthusiasm remains to be seen, Ntombela said, “I would lean more toward premature excitement.”

“Ten thousand doesn’t come close to the number of votes needed to secure a parliamentary seat. And of those 10,000, how many will stick around when Floyd makes a mistake? If the ANC, a legacy party, has just over 1.4 million members in a country of 63 million, that should tell you how hard it is to earn support.”

According to Ntombela, there will always be a need for new parties in the country.

“The real question is: what’s novel about the new party? What change is it offering? Can it distinguish itself from the ANC and DA?”

He also warned against expecting transformation from familiar political figures.

“If the leader comes from the ANC or DA, it would be foolish to expect anything different.”

Responding to criticism on whether Shivambu can realistically win public support, especially considering his track record with the EFF and MK Party, Ntombela expressed skepticism.

“He can be hopeful, but it will be difficult to find a unique political niche.”

“The ANC rides on legacy. The DA is seen as predominantly white. The EFF appeals to the youth. MK and the IFP are rooted in Zulu identity and their founding leaders. None of these parties command overwhelming cross-racial support. Floyd’s options are limited.”

Meanwhile, the MK Party has moved forward without him. 

Over the weekend, it announced the nomination and swearing-in of nine new Members of Parliament, excluding Shivambu.

Colleen Makhubele, the MK Party’s chief whip, said the MPs will be sworn in on Wednesday in the Speaker’s Boardroom at Parliament.

The new MPs are: Lungisani Graduate Shangase, Jeffrey Bhekumndeni Mtolo, Zibuse Khayelihle Abednego Cele, Siphetho Witness Mkhize, Philisande Mkhize, Gift Motaung, Noma Buthelezi, Ntandoyenkosi Nkosentsha Shezi, and Khanyisile Litchfield.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

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