By Betha Madhomu
Floyd Shivambu’s move to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party marks a significant shift in his political journey, drawing considerable attention and speculation.
Formerly the deputy leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), he had been a key figure in the party, known for his outspoken and assertive approach.
His departure from the EFF came as a surprise to many, particularly given his long-standing association with arty leader Julius Malema and the central role he played in shaping the party’s policies and strategies.
Shivambu’s transition to the MK Party was officially announced by former resident Jacob Zuma, who has taken a leadership role in the organisation.
Zuma’s endorsement of Shivambu as the MK Party’s national organiser underscores the high regard in which he holds Shivambu’s political acumen.
New Mkhonto WeSizwe Party National Organizer Floyd Shivambu: Why I left the EFF and joined the MKP #MKPartyPresser #FloydShivambu pic.twitter.com/eRE134DFuF
— Sihle To You ✍🏿️📝 (@SihleSays) August 22, 2024
Zuma described him as an “honest, calculating, and clear” politician, praising his strategic decision-making and suggesting that Shivambu’s move to the MK Party is well-timed and motivated by a genuine alignment of values.
“He is a real politician. There is politics which I define as scientific politics – he takes decision at the right time, for good reasons,” Zuma said at a media briefing on Thursday.
Shivambu’s new role in the MK Party involves significant responsibilities. As the national organiser, he is tasked with refining the party’s policy positions, a crucial function as the MK Party seeks to distinguish itself in South Africa’s competitive political landscape.
Additionally, he will be instrumental in expanding the party’s presence and influence within communities, aiming to build a grassroots movement that resonates with the party’s ideological foundations.
Shivambu’s shift to the MK Party also signals his continued commitment to addressing the issues he has long championed, including economic justice, anti-imperialism, and the empowerment of marginalised communities.
We had a solid and sound Press Conference of @MkhontoweSizwex today and we are soldiering on. We will never betray the revolution! We are inspired the fighting spirit of those who came before us. It’s No surrender! No retreat! pic.twitter.com/3GxbSXdGvz
— Floyd Shivambu (@FloydShivambu) August 22, 2024
By aligning with the MK Party, he appears to be seeking a platform that more closely aligns with his vision for South Africa’s future – a vision that he believes is rooted in the revolutionary principles that the MK Party espouses.
This move is not without controversy, particularly given the public comments made by Malema, who labelleed him a “betrayer” following his departure.
Shivambu, however, has dismissed these accusations, stating that his decision was not about personal loyalties but about finding a political home where his ideological beliefs could thrive.
In joining the MK Party, however, Shivambu is taking a calculated risk, stepping away from the established platform of the EFF to help build a newer, perhaps more radical movement.
His success in this new role will likely depend on his ability to leverage his political experience and connections, as well as his capacity to articulate a compelling vision that resonates with both former EFF supporters and new constituents.
The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Shivambu’s gamble will pay off, potentially reshaping the landscape of South African politics in the process.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
