Floyd hints: “New emerging political party on the cards”

Former uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu has hinted at the formation of a new political party, declaring that a fresh left-wing force may be necessary to take South Africa’s liberation struggle forward.

This announcement came during a press briefing held in Midrand, Gauteng Province where Shivambu launched the National Consultation Team (NCT) under the banner of the Mayibuye Consultation Process.

Shivambu who has headline the news recently for lashing out on both MK Party and his former political home Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has called for a new political initiative aimed at promoting black economic solidarity, advancing an anti-imperialist agenda and restoring the role of traditional and religious leaders in the country’s governance discourse.

“The process also aims to foster inclusivity and utilize media strategically to engage South Africans,” says Shivambu.

Shivambu argued that current black-led opposition parties no longer reflect the aspirations of the people. “Mayibuye process is not yet a political party but could evolve into one based on feedback from national consultations currently underway.”

Speaking to the media, Shivambu addressed that the leadership of the initiative includes individuals from a range of political and social backgrounds. Among them is Luther Lebelo, a senior figure from the MK Party, and Bishop Bafana Zondo, leader of the Rivers of Life Church. Bishop Zondo’s inclusion has raised eyebrows due to ongoing criminal charges he faces, including ten counts of rape and sexual assault.

Shivambu told reporters that Bishop Zondo’s leadership experience and contributions to community organizing warrant his inclusion in the Mayibuye Consultation Process. “He has been playing multiple leadership roles in his community and in other organizations we came from.”

He further said: “He was coordinating a large nationwide inter-religious movement.”

He argued that church leaders often act as community leaders and have deeper insight into the day-to-day challenges faced by communities than elected public officials.

Shivambu’s political credibility has come under scrutiny in recent weeks. He faced backlash for visiting fugitive church leader Shepherd Bushiri in Malawi, and he recently retracted inflammatory remarks about Nhlamulo Ndlela. The comments, which accused Ndlela of substance abuse, led to a R3 million defamation lawsuit.