The uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) Party has moved swiftly to appoint a new Secretary-General after Floyd Shivambu’s abrupt removal from the role and redeployment to Parliament, a decision framed by insiders as a strategic reset under Jacob Zuma’s leadership . The move, announced on June 3, 2025 , follows reports of Shivambu’s visit to fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri’s church in Malawi , which party officials allegedly deemed “inappropriate”. While no official reason has been released due to technical restrictions on accessing the full News24 article [[JavaScript error]], sources suggest the reshuffle reflects Zuma’s tightening control amid factional disputes and public backlash over Shivambu’s perceived aloofness and mismanagement.
Shivambu, a former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader turned MK stalwart, joined the party in August 2024 and was formally appointed Secretary-General in November 2024 under Zuma’s directive. His tenure was marked by efforts to consolidate the party’s ideological messaging and campaign infrastructure, aligning with his self-described “heterodox” approach to governance. However, critics within the party reportedly accused him of “elitism” and failing to connect with grassroots supporters, with one MK member alleging, “He acted like a VIP, not a servant-leader”.
The decision to redeploy Shivambu to Parliament has further fueled speculation about his political future, as his role in shaping the party’s strategy will now be limited. Analysts argue the reshuffle underscores Zuma’s centralization of power, with the former president seeking to purge dissent and align the MK Party’s hierarchy with his vision ahead of upcoming municipal elections. “This isn’t just about Shivambu—it’s about Zuma ensuring absolute loyalty,” said a Pretoria-based political commentator.
Public reaction remains polarized. Anti-corruption advocates have criticized the MK Party’s reliance on figures tied to past scandals, while supporters argue the focus should remain on policy over personality clashes. Meanwhile, Shivambu’s silence on the matter has intensified scrutiny, with observers suggesting the move could weaken the party’s appeal to younger, disillusioned voters seeking fresh leadership.
As the MK Party prepares to name its new Secretary-General, the reshuffle highlights the challenges of building a credible political movement in a climate strained by economic and social crises. For now, Shivambu’s redeployment marks a pivotal shift in the party’s trajectory—a reality where stability often hinges on the whims of power.
