Floyd Shivambu, leader of the newly formed political movement Mayibuye Afrika and former senior figure in the Economic Freedom Fighters, has publicly addressed long-standing speculation about his relationship with celebrity chef Lorna Maseko during an appearance on the Podcast and Chill show aired on April 16, 2026.
During the interview, Shivambu discussed a range of political issues, including internal tensions within the EFF, legal controversies involving Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, and the ongoing firearm-related case of Julius Malema. However, attention shifted when he was questioned about rumours linking him romantically to Maseko.
Shivambu firmly dismissed claims that the two are married, stating, “I don’t have a wife,” and insisted that his relationship with Maseko is strictly professional and respectful. He emphasized that public speculation about personal matters is often exaggerated and stressed that he prefers to keep his private life away from political discourse.
“If there is or was a relationship, it’s personal, and I don’t discuss private affairs in public,” he added, noting that public figures should be evaluated based on their work rather than personal associations.
Despite his denial, social media discussions continue to link Shivambu with Maseko, a well-known chef and television personality who now resides in the United States. Reports have long suggested that the pair may have shared a private relationship and are believed by some sources to have a daughter born in 2021. Maseko previously avoided confirming pregnancy rumours but later appeared to acknowledge the child by sharing moments from her second birthday celebration in 2023.
Maseko, who has also maintained a low profile regarding her personal life, has previously hinted at her preference for privacy despite public interest.
Meanwhile, she continues to gain international recognition, recently making her debut on the Chopped, further strengthening her profile in the global culinary industry.