By Bafana Phalane
The recent removal of Floyd Shivambu as the Secretary-General of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) marks a significant chapter in the party’s tumultuous journey. Once considered the intellectual cornerstone of the party, Shivambu’s redeployment to Parliament shows the deepening instability within MKP. This development raises pressing questions about the party’s future and its ability to establish itself as a formidable political force.
Established in December 2023 by former President Jacob Zuma, MKP emerged as a political entity aiming to challenge the dominance of the African National Congress (ANC). The party quickly gained traction, particularly in Zuma’s home province of KwaZulu-Natal, where it secured 45.32% of the provincial vote, surpassing the ANC’s 17% . This early success was attributed to its strong anti-establishment rhetoric and promises of radical economic transformation, including land expropriation without compensation and nationalisation of key industries.
Despite its initial successes, MKP has been plagued by internal instability. The party has experienced multiple changes in its treasurer position within a short period, reflecting deeper organizational challenges. Such frequent shifts in key positions raise questions about the party’s internal cohesion and strategic direction.
Floyd Shivambu, a former deputy president of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), joined MKP in August 2024 and was appointed Secretary-General in November of the same year. His appointment was seen as a strategic move to bolster the party’s intellectual and organizational capacity. However, Shivambu’s tenure was marred by allegations of authoritarian leadership and sidelining of original MKP members. Prominent figures, including Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, publicly criticised Shivambu, accusing him of being ineffective and favouring newcomers over long-standing members.
Internal conflicts escalated when Shivambu’s leadership style was challenged by party members, leading to a power struggle that culminated in his removal. The decision to redeploy Shivambu to Parliament signifies a shift in the party’s leadership dynamics and raises concerns about its future direction.
Allegations of nepotism have further tarnished MKP’s image. Critics argue that the party’s leadership has been characterized by favoritism, with key positions being filled based on personal connections rather than merit. This perception has undermined trust within the party and alienated potential supporters .
In the 2024 national and provincial elections, MKP secured 14% of the national vote, positioning itself as the third-largest party in Parliament . However, this achievement was overshadowed by the party’s subsequent legal challenges to the election results, which were dismissed by the Electoral Court . Additionally, MKP’s performance in provincial elections has been inconsistent, with setbacks such as the loss of the KwaZulu-Natal premiership to the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP).
It’s been a year and a half since its inception, MKP faces significant challenges in establishing itself as a stable and effective political entity. The removal of a prominent figure like Shivambu, who was seen as a key intellectual force, may impact the party’s ideological direction and public perception. As the MKP navigates these turbulent times, its ability to unite its factions and present a coherent platform will be crucial for its survival and growth in South Africa’s competitive political arena.
The MKP’s recent developments shows the complexities of building a political party amidst internal divisions and external expectations. As the party moves forward, addressing its internal conflicts and establishing a clear, unified vision will be essential for its future success. Without significant reforms and a commitment to internal democracy, MKP risks remaining a fragmented entity, unable to challenge the established political order effectively.
Bafana Phalane: Editor and Founder @ Maverick Point.
