A senior official in South Africa’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, Floyd Shivambu, has been dismissed from his role as secretary-general following a controversial visit to a fugitive preacher in Malawi.
Shivambu, a former member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), had joined MK in August 2023 and quickly rose to become one of its most influential figures. However, his political ascent was halted after he attended an Easter service in April at the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church, led by self-proclaimed prophet Shepherd Bushiri. Bushiri is a Malawian preacher who fled South Africa in 2020 while on bail after facing charges of fraud and money laundering.
Bushiri’s escape back to Malawi remains shrouded in mystery and has strained diplomatic relations between the two countries, with South Africa continuing its efforts to extradite him. Bushiri denies all allegations.
On Wednesday, MK party officials announced that Shivambu’s removal was due to his actions being “against the spirit and prescripts” of the party’s constitution. “The president and national officials were left with no other option but to act swiftly,” said MK official Nathi Nhleko during a press briefing. He added that Shivambu’s trip to Malawi had not been officially sanctioned by the party.
Despite the dismissal, Shivambu will remain within MK’s ranks and is set to represent the party in the National Assembly. Reacting to his demotion, Shivambu expressed acceptance of the decision, stating, “I fully accept the resolution of the party and look forward to serving in parliament.”
Shivambu’s dismissal comes at a critical moment for the MK party. Formed by former President Jacob Zuma, the party made a strong electoral debut in the 2024 general election, securing third place and contributing to the African National Congress (ANC) losing its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994.
As MK navigates its newfound prominence in South African politics, the removal of a top official over ties to a fugitive pastor underscores the party’s intent to enforce internal discipline and uphold its guiding principles.
