Jacob Zuma, the president of the MK Party, has removed Floyd Shivambu from his position as secretary-general after Shivambu’s recent visit to Shepherd Bushiri’s church in Malawi during the Easter weekend.
This decision comes after intense criticism and controversy surrounding the visit. The MK Party released a statement on its @MkhontoweSizwe X account, explaining that Shivambu’s visit to Malawi was deemed a violation of Section 3 (j) of the party’s Constitution.
This section deals with undertaking international trips and engaging in activities that are opposed to the party’s agenda. The party’s leadership met on June 2 to discuss the gravity of Shivambu’s actions and determined that his visit was against the spirit of the party’s constitution.
[MEDIA STATEMENT]: STATEMENT OF H.E. PRESIDENT JACOB ZUMA OF UMKHONTO WESIZWE PARTY ON THE SECRETARY GENERAL OF THE MK PARTY. pic.twitter.com/qsMEZKnkPO
— uMkhonto WeSizwe Party (Official) (@MkhontoweSizwex) June 3, 2025
As a result of his removal, Shivambu has been redeployed to the National Assembly as a Member of Parliament. This move is seen as a significant demotion for Shivambu, who has been a key figure in the MK Party.
Shivambu’s visit to Bushiri’s church drew intense criticism from members of the public, political parties, and analysts. Many questioned the timing and nature of the visit, given Bushiri’s controversial status and the fact that he is a fugitive from South Africa.
The MK Party distanced itself from Shivambu’s visit, stating that it was not sanctioned by the party and that Shivambu attended in his personal capacity.
The incident has sparked debate about the party’s stance on accountability and the expectations placed on its leaders. Shivambu’s previous praise for Bushiri, despite the latter’s legal troubles, has also raised questions about his judgment and loyalty to the party’s values.
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