Former MK Party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu has set the wheels in motion for the formation of a new political party — a dramatic move that follows accusations of plotting to oust former president Jacob Zuma as leader of uMkhonto weSizwe (MKP).
At a press briefing held at the Mhulu Luxury Boutique Hotel in Midrand on Thursday, Shivambu revealed that he would be embarking on a nationwide consultation process involving traditional leaders, churches, and ordinary South Africans.
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“We will be seeking the wisdom of ordinary South Africans, including all the churches of Zion Christian Church, of Nazareth Baptist Church and IPCC… Michael Nkuna, Dr Irvin Khoza, Patrice Motsepe, and Kaizer Motaung on the need to form a new political party,” said Shivambu.
He added, “If yes, what should be the values of that political party and what should differentiate it from other political parties?”
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Despite these revelations, Shivambu maintained that he had not severed ties with the MKP. “I have not resigned from uMkhonto weSizwe. I will never resign from uMkhonto weSizwe,” he said, insisting that joining Zuma’s party “was the best decision ever.”
Accused of Coup, Shivambu Slams ‘Fabricated’ Intelligence Report
Shivambu used the media briefing to hit back at claims that he attempted to stage a coup within MKP. He revealed that an intelligence report had accused him of trying to overthrow Zuma and assume leadership of the party.
Labelling the report as “bizarre and fabricated”, Shivambu mocked the more outlandish claims, including that he had “supernatural powers” capable of making people disappear.
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“There’s nothing I do in private that I won’t own publicly,” he said defiantly, dismissing the allegations as politically motivated.
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His remarks come during a period of growing internal strife within MKP — infighting that has seen traditional leaders and a strong Mpumalanga bloc push back against his influence.
From Bushiri Controversy to Party Vision: What’s Next for Shivambu?
Shivambu’s political demise within MKP was hastened by a series of missteps — most notably, his unapproved Easter visit to the church of fugitive Malawian pastor Shepherd Bushiri. Party insiders claim the visit went against MKP’s stance and ultimately triggered his removal as the party’s sixth secretary-general.
In recent days, rumours of his exit intensified after he hosted an unsanctioned press conference — a move seen as a public declaration of his split from the party’s inner circle.
Despite the fallout, Shivambu remains adamant that the new party in the works will not be a “personal project, a cult or a group of friends.” He promised a consultative approach and announced that an interim leadership team would soon be unveiled to steer the formation process.
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