A new political force, the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, has been formally launched, with its founder declaring an intention to contest the upcoming local government elections.
The movement was announced by its president, former uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu, at a media briefing in Midrand. Shivambu stated the launch followed a nationwide consultation process that began in June.
Outlining the core principles of the new movement, Shivambu declared, “We are fighting for total freedom and emancipation now. That we are fighting for total political freedom and emancipation. Now we’re fighting for total economic freedom and emancipation. Now we’re fighting for cultural freedom and decolonization.”
He further stated the movement’s goals are to “build a capable developmental state now” and to be a “caring and responsive people’s movement.”
Shivambu confirmed the movement’s immediate political ambitions, stating it will be on the ballot for the 2026 local government elections. “What that means is that Afrika Mayibuye Movement is going to be able to contest… you are going to contest all the wards in the 2026,” he said, adding they are ready to contest “all the municipalities.”
Looking further ahead, Shivambu also indicated the movement’s plan to contest the national general elections in 2029.
To prepare for the polls, Shivambu announced that the movement will convene a national convention to finalize its internal structures and manifesto. He noted that despite an “overwhelming mandate” from the people of South Africa during consultations, the movement’s founding documents will still be made available for public input.
The leadership structure was also revealed, with Shivambu announcing that Robert Noedor and Lubabalo Matwinga will serve as the movement’s two deputy presidents.