Floyd Shivambu applauds Jacob Zuma for leaving ANC and forming MK Party at first-anniversary celebration in South Africa

UMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party’s Secretary-General, Floyd Shivambu, praised Jacob Zuma for his daring decision to leave the African National Congress (ANC) and establish the MK Party.

Shivambu shared these thoughts during the party’s first-anniversary gala dinner, held on Monday, December 16.

A Bold Step Away From Tradition

Shivambu reflected on the disbelief many people expressed when Zuma announced the formation of the MK Party.

He described Zuma’s choice as a bold and revolutionary act, particularly given Zuma’s six-decade-long service to the ANC.

“That was one of the boldest actions. Some of us took inspiration from it,” said Shivambu, referring to his own decision to leave the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a party he co-founded with Julius Malema.

“We realized that when the cause is just and revolutionary, sacrifices must be made, and the right steps must be taken.”

Shivambu officially exited the EFF in August 2023, a move that underscored his alignment with the MK Party’s vision.

MK Party’s Rapid Rise

Highlighting the party’s remarkable growth, Shivambu expressed gratitude to the South African voters, particularly those in KwaZulu-Natal and other provinces, for their overwhelming support.

“The MK Party achieved something incredible within just six months. It is now one of only two black-led political parties in South Africa that can claim millions of votes,” he said.

“Apart from the outgoing ruling party [ANC], no other political entity can match that level of support.”

The MK Party made significant waves during South Africa’s May 29 elections, securing over two million votes and emerging as the country’s third-largest political party.

Zuma’s Ongoing Battle With the ANC

In the midst of MK’s success, Jacob Zuma’s expulsion from the ANC remains a contentious issue.

The ANC’s national disciplinary committee (NDC) upheld its decision to expel Zuma, accusing him of violating party rules by launching the MK Party on December 16, 2023.

Zuma, however, continues to reject the ruling. Earlier this year, he stated that he would consult with his legal team, including ANC veteran and ally Tony Yengeni, to decide on his next steps.

The ANC accused Zuma of undermining the party’s integrity by collaborating with a rival political party—the MK Party.

According to the disciplinary findings, this action was “contrary to the aims, policies, and objectives of the ANC.”

Zuma’s Response to the Expulsion

In a firm statement, Zuma’s foundation dismissed the ANC’s decision under President Cyril Ramaphosa’s leadership, arguing that the current administration lacks the authority to expel him from a movement he has dedicated his life to.

“Zuma strongly rejects this decision,” the statement read.

“In the coming days, he will consult with his legal team, his family, and trusted political comrades to determine the best way forward. Once a decision is reached, it will be communicated to the nation by Zuma himself.”

What Lies Ahead?

As the MK Party celebrates its rapid rise and Zuma pushes back against the ANC’s expulsion, the political landscape in South Africa is shifting.

With growing voter confidence and a leadership determined to forge a new path, the MK Party’s influence will be one to watch closely in the coming months.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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