The MK Party has removed Floyd Shivambu from his position as secretary-general following his unauthorized trip to Malawi. The decision, announced by party leader Jacob Zuma on June 3, 2025, has stirred debate among supporters, with some questioning fairness within the party.
Shivambu’s removal came after he attended a church service led by fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri, who is wanted in South Africa. Malawi’s courts recently approved Bushiri’s extradition, making Shivambu’s visit controversial. The MK Party stated that his actions violated its constitution, which bars unauthorized international engagements that conflict with the party’s agenda.
Critics have pointed out that while Shivambu faced swift punishment, Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, has not been disciplined despite publicly criticizing Shivambu. This has led to accusations of selective enforcement of party rules.
Jacob Zuma went to visit a convicted diamond smuggler in Liebenberg. He is allowed to have shady friends, he cannot discipline Duduzile yet they even quote clauses for comrade Nyiko. All these people fighting him cannot even do half the work. Tribalism yona ikhona strong futhi
— uMagebhula – uSofasonke (@KamvelihleGoba) June 3, 2025
Some members have also raised concerns about tribalism influencing leadership decisions, adding to tensions within the party. As a relatively new political group, the MK Party faces challenges in balancing discipline and internal loyalty.
The situation highlights broader issues of accountability in South African politics, where personal connections often affect decision-making. How the party handles these concerns will be crucial as it prepares for the 2026 local elections. Moving forward, the MK Party will need to address questions of fairness and transparency to maintain credibility.