Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
05 June 2025 | 14:45 CAT

Power shift in MK Party: Floyd Shivambu ousted amid rising tensions and questions over internal democracy.

Floyd Shivambu’s swift removal as Secretary General of the MK Party has sent shockwaves through political circles and raised serious concerns about internal democracy within the party. The official line attributes his axing to a controversial visit to fugitive Pastor Shepherd Bushiri. However, political analyst Dr. Ntsikelelo Breakfast suggests this explanation is merely a smokescreen for deeper rifts.

“This was just a strategic opportunity to oust him,” said Dr. Breakfast, pointing to Shivambu’s conflicts with Jacob Zuma’s daughter and dissatisfaction with his leadership style among party ranks. The development follows weeks of internal lobbying and, as Dr. Breakfast put it, “the dust has now settled.”

Once a deputy president in the EFF, Shivambu was promised a strategic post when he joined the MK Party, and initially, that promise was fulfilled. Now, he finds himself relegated to an ordinary parliamentary member. “It’s not a redeployment, it’s a demotion,” said Breakfast. “The party has lost confidence in him.”

Shivambu’s political future appears increasingly uncertain. His strained ties with the EFF, where he’s seen as a defector, make a return unlikely. “There’s no way Malema would allow that. He wouldn’t trust him again,” noted Breakfast.

More troubling, however, is what Shivambu’s ousting reveals about the MK Party itself. Despite impressive election gains, placing among South Africa’s top three parties critics argue it lacks institutionalised democracy. “Decisions are made in the dark, unilaterally,” said Breakfast. “Let’s be honest, the party revolves around the personality of Zuma.”

With growing speculation about who will replace Shivambu, possibly Zuma’s daughter. The analyst warned of creeping dynastic politics. “Why would you attack Floyd like that if you don’t have ambitions?”

The party’s failure to convene a proper conference has only deepened doubts. “What is the issue?” asked Breakfast. “Hold a conference. You say you believe in the will of the people-take the party to the people.”

As internal tensions mount, so too do the questions facing MK’s voter base. In a landscape marked by instability and leadership battles, confidence in the party’s long-term direction may soon be tested.

Listen to the full interview on Radio Islam International with Moulana Habib Bobat and Dr. Ntsikelelo Breakfast.