Floyd Shivambu has been removed from his leadership position in the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party following what the party described as a “serious breach of political discipline.”
Floyd Shivambu removed from MK Party leadership: Here’s why
The decision was made public during a press briefing held in eThekwini on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, and was confirmed by MK Party leader Jacob Zuma.
Shivambu’s dismissal stems from a controversial trip he made to Malawi.
Zuma said that this trip was not authorised by the party or its leadership and was found to violate the MK Party’s constitution, specifically Section 3(j). This section forbids members from undertaking international trips that go against the party’s goals or those of its allies.
The visit to Malawi became more concerning due to the country’s ongoing legal dealings with South Africa.
Malawi is at the centre of an extradition case involving Shepherd Bushiri and his wife Mary, who fled South Africa while out on bail and are wanted for financial crimes.
Shivambu’s unsanctioned presence in Malawi during this sensitive legal process raised eyebrows and led to criticism from civil society groups.
“Based on deliberations by the National Officials, it was reaffirmed that the trip was not an officially sanctioned programme of the organisation or the President,” Zuma explained. “Therefore, it goes against the constitution of the party.”
Zuma noted that because of the serious nature of the incident, the party had no choice but to act quickly to protect its image and principles.
Shivambu has now been moved from his post as secretary-general and reassigned to the party’s parliamentary caucus. Zuma emphasised that the party still values Shivambu’s experience and expects him to contribute meaningfully in Parliament.
“We would like to thank and acknowledge Commander Shivambu’s contribution,” Zuma said. “His invaluable skills and experience as a politician will continue to benefit the MK Party in the new role.”
Shivambu accepted the reassignment after internal discussions.
Has Julius Malema reacted?
Just months ago, Shivambu had made headlines for resigning from his long-time position as deputy president of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). His departure was reportedly linked to internal tensions with Julius Malema and suggestions that he was preparing to challenge Malema’s leadership.
Though Malema has not commented publicly on Shivambu’s dismissal from the MK Party, he did share the news on social media, in what some viewed as a pointed response.
Shivambu had been appointed as the MK Party’s national organiser shortly after leaving the EFF.
His quick rise in the MK Party had been seen as a sign of Jacob Zuma’s efforts to strengthen the party by recruiting influential political figures. However, his recent unauthorised actions appear to have cost him that position.
