Floyd Shivambu, leader of the Africa Mayibuye movement, has come forward with explosive claims that law enforcement authorities attempted to falsely implicate him in the 2022 murder of Hillary Gardee, the daughter of former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of Parliament, Godrich Gardee.
In a detailed account shared during a recent media briefing, Shivambu alleged that certain elements within the police force sought to draw him into the high-profile case through what he described as “fabricated narratives and political manipulation.” He maintained that the alleged attempts were part of a broader agenda to tarnish his political standing and undermine his influence.
Hillary Gardee’s murder shocked South Africa in April 2022, prompting widespread outrage and calls for swift justice. The 28-year-old’s body was discovered outside Mbombela after she had been reported missing, leading to an intensive police investigation and subsequent arrests of multiple suspects. The case remains one of the country’s most closely watched criminal proceedings.
Shivambu, who previously served as deputy president of the EFF before his political shift, stated that he became aware of the alleged plot during interactions with individuals close to the investigation. According to him, there were deliberate efforts to associate his name with the suspects, despite what he insists is a complete lack of evidence linking him to the crime.
“I have never had any involvement in this matter, directly or indirectly,” Shivambu asserted. “The attempts to drag my name into such a heinous crime are not only malicious but also deeply irresponsible. It speaks to a worrying abuse of power within certain structures.”
He further called for an independent inquiry into the conduct of the officials involved, arguing that accountability is essential to restore public trust in the justice system. Shivambu emphasized that such actions, if proven true, could undermine legitimate investigations and compromise the integrity of law enforcement institutions.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has yet to formally respond to Shivambu’s allegations. However, sources within the justice sector have indicated that any claims of misconduct would be taken seriously and subjected to internal review processes if officially lodged.
Political analysts suggest that Shivambu’s revelations could have significant implications, particularly given the sensitive nature of the Gardee case and its emotional resonance with the public. They warn that unverified allegations risk complicating ongoing legal proceedings and fueling political tensions.
Meanwhile, the Gardee family has remained focused on seeking justice for Hillary, urging all parties to avoid politicising the case. As the trial continues, the spotlight now shifts to whether Shivambu’s claims will prompt further scrutiny into the investigation.
The developments add another layer of complexity to an already tragic case, raising critical questions about accountability, political interference, and the pursuit of justice in South Africa.
