The MK Party swiftly reacts to Floyd Shivambu's unauthorized visit to a controversial pastor linked to ongoing legal issues in South Africa.
South African Politician ousted after Controversial Pastor Visit
South African Politician ousted after Controversial Pastor Visit
Floyd Shivambu, secretary-general of the MK Party, faces removal for attending the church service of fugitive Pastor Shepherd Bushiri.
Floyd Shivambu, a prominent figure in South African politics, has been dismissed from his role as the secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party after attending a controversial church service led by self-proclaimed pastor, Shepherd Bushiri. The visit, which occurred during an Easter service in April, has led to significant backlash for Shivambu, with political leaders citing his actions as contrary to the party's constitution.
The MK party, which emerged under the leadership of former President Jacob Zuma, has expressed its discontent over Shivambu's decision to attend the service of Bushiri, who has been accused of fraud and controversy in South Africa since his arrest in 2020. Despite his controversial past, Bushiri managed to evade South African authorities by returning to Malawi, where he still faces calls for extradition.
In an official statement, MK's spokesperson Nathi Nhleko announced that the decision to remove Shivambu was made to maintain the party's integrity. He noted that the visit did not conform to authorized party activities and left no other choice but to act decisively.
Shivambu, who joined the MK party in August 2022 after leaving the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has stated his acceptance of the decision and remains committed to carrying out his duties in the National Assembly. The MK party benefited from increased support during the most recent elections, taking third place and contributing to the African National Congress (ANC) losing its majority for the first time since 1994.
Political dynamics continue to shift in South Africa, as controversies surrounding figures like Bushiri and Shivambu reveal the tensions within parties and the broader societal issues at play. As the situation unfolds, the MK party's future within South Africa's political landscape remains to be seen.
