Floyd Shivambu’s Political Pivot Hits a Bumpy Road

Floyd Nyiko Shivambu, once the outspoken EFF deputy president known for his sharp questioning of ministers, has had a turbulent year since joining Jacob Zuma’s MK party.

His transition hasn’t been seamless. After being quietly demoted from MK’s secretary-general to an ordinary MP (a move still in progress), Shivambu made headlines by traveling to Malawi—reportedly to meet controversial pastor Shepherd Bushiri, who is facing fraud charges in South Africa.

Upon his return, Shivambu held a press conference, floating the idea of launching a new political movement. He invoked revolutionary rhetoric, quoting Che Guevara: “The Revolution is not an apple that falls when it is ripe. You have to make it fall!”

He also took to X (formerly Twitter), rallying supporters with promises of accountability and collective action. “We are humbled by the number of volunteers who say let’s proceed,” he posted, calling for Gauteng-based helpers to assist with data capturing. “No surrender! No retreat! Mayibuye iAfrika!”

But the online response was less than enthusiastic. Rather than rallying behind his vision, many social media users dismissed his announcement as vague and unconvincing.

Shivambu’s political future remains uncertain—whether he’ll revive his influence or fade into the background is yet to be seen. For now, the revolution he’s calling for seems to be falling flat.