On a recent episode of Politricking with Tshidi Madia on EWN, political experts Sakhile Sindane and Dr. Levy Phadi talked about the events that have been causing turmoil inside the MK Party (MKP). Floyd Shivambu’s role in this inner struggle was the focal point of the conversation. In his renownedly honest assessment, Dr. Phadi did not hold back.
He made the comment, “Floyd has no one to blame but himself,” in reference to the controversial figure’s multiple strategic mistakes. A former top EFF member, Shivambu has since associated himself with MKP, despite the party’s spectacular ascent. It was inevitable, according to Phadi, that Shivambu’s assimilation into MKP would be difficult.
Despite his past efforts to mend fences with the EFF leadership, Floyd remained frigid and uncompromising. After those failures, he allegedly ignored Phadi’s advise and stepped up his game. Sindane further complicated matters by suggesting that the structural problems inside the MKP contributed to the unfolding drama. The gathering is still getting its bearings.
He noted that conflicts were bound to arise whenever influential people like Floyd were involved, especially when their values and outlooks were at odds with one another. Since MKP lacks a clear ideological foundation and a cohesive leadership plan, the experts agree that the party would experience the same infighting as other young South African parties.
Phadi cautioned that unless MKP can establish internal discipline and a common objective, the momentum it has been enjoying would not endure. Since MKP is making news and causing controversy, the remaining question is whether its leadership—which includes Shivambu—can stabilise the ship or continue to plunge it into disaster