MK Party leader Jacob Zuma has suggested that the recent redeployment of former Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu to the National Assembly may involve more than just a violation of the party’s constitution.
Zuma addressed the issue during the party’s youth wing rally in Clermont, Durban, on Monday, where he emphasized that the MK Party would not tolerate individuals using the organization for personal gain.
Two weeks ago, the MK Party announced Shivambu’s redeployment, citing his unsanctioned visit to fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri over the Easter weekend as a breach of party rules. At the time, Zuma stated that the party had received multiple complaints regarding Shivambu’s actions.
However, questions have since arisen over whether the Bushiri visit was the sole reason for Shivambu’s removal. On Monday, Zuma appeared to allude to deeper issues, stating that some within the party had been aggrieved by the decision—even planning protests in response.
“We Don’t Want to Embarrass People”
Without naming Shivambu directly, Zuma hinted at “serious acts of misconduct” as the real reason behind the reshuffle.
“We have had seven people already who have held the position of Secretary-General because we are serious about this organization,” Zuma said. “If you believe that you are popular and important, we don’t care. This is about our party.”
He added that the party sometimes withholds full details of disciplinary actions to avoid publicly shaming those involved.
“When we take decisions against people for wrongdoing, we don’t want to embarrass them,” Zuma explained. “So when we say they must be removed, it’s not because we’re making things up—but we won’t tell people the real reason because we don’t want to tarnish people’s names.”
“This Is Not an Organization to Make Money”
Zuma also took a firm stance against internal corruption, warning members against treating the party as a means of personal enrichment.
“Let us not take this organization as one that will come to make money,” he declared. “This is not an organization to make money. It’s an organization to liberate South Africa.”
Shivambu has not been seen publicly with Zuma since his removal from the party’s leadership structure. It remains unclear when he will be sworn in as an MK Party member of Parliament.
The MK Party has yet to release further details on the matter, leaving lingering questions about the full circumstances behind Shivambu’s redeployment.