Floyd Shivambu has weighed in on the issue of dual membership, particularly focusing on former President Jacob Zuma’s membership in both the MK Party and the ANC. According to the MK Party’s constitution, dual membership is permitted, which has sparked speculation that the MK Party is positioning itself as a temporary vehicle for ANC’s Radical Economic Transformation (RET) faction. Some believe the MK Party’s ultimate goal is to merge back with the ANC once President Cyril Ramaphosa is out of power, which they anticipate could happen soon.
Shivambu’s comments have fueled broader conversations about political maneuvering within South Africa’s ruling party. He suggests that individuals like Zuma, who hold dual membership, are leveraging the MK Party to revive the ANC’s RET faction. This perspective paints the MK Party as a “temporary parking spot” for those waiting for a political shift within the ANC. Shivambu also hinted that he suspects prominent figures, like himself, may be considering a return to the ANC, implying frustration with the current political order, where leaders like Ronald Lamola have held ministerial positions for nearly a decade.
Supporters of the MK Party, however, have defended the dual membership clause, explaining that it’s not a conspiracy but a practical approach. They cited examples of councillors holding dual membership, reinforcing that this arrangement is neither unusual nor indicative of a secret political agenda.
Shivambu’s remarks have sparked debate about his own trajectory and his stance in the broader political landscape. Once viewed as an intelligent and strategic thinker, some now question his approach and political relevance. Despite this, some admire his directness, noting that he tends to focus on the issues at hand without resorting to personal attacks.
As tensions within the ANC and its offshoots continue to simmer, the MK Party’s role in shaping the future of the ANC remains a focal point of discussion. Will it serve as a catalyst for change, or merely a stepping stone for disillusioned members? As one supporter noted, “Bayoze bavume Gwaza Mkhonto” (They will eventually accept the spear’s thrust), highlighting the persistent call for radical transformation.
