Floyd Shivambu and Mzwanele “Jimmy” Manyi, two influential figures in South Africa’s political landscape, have recently made headlines by joining the Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). Shivambu, a founding member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) alongside Julius Malema, and Manyi, who previously aligned himself with the African Transformation Movement (ATM) before joining the EFF, have now pledged their support to MKP under the leadership of former President Jacob Zuma.
The MKP, which has gained attention for its strong ties to Zuma, welcomed the two defectors with open arms. Vincent Mdunge, the MKP spokesperson in KwaZulu-Natal, described the new members as “political giants” whose expertise and influence would greatly benefit the party. Mdunge emphasized that their decision to join MKP was not made lightly, suggesting that Shivambu and Manyi would be rewarded with significant roles within the party, possibly in Parliament or other strategic positions.
Mdunge hinted at the party’s plans for Shivambu and Manyi, revealing that MKP had recently dismissed 15 members of Parliament to make room for newcomers. However, the process of integrating them into the national Parliament is subject to regulations set by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC). An IEC official explained that while the party could replace members who had been dismissed, deceased, or resigned, it could not arbitrarily reshuffle its candidate list to favor outsiders like Shivambu and Manyi. Despite this, both are expected to remain in national Parliament due to the ongoing restructuring within MKP.
Manyi, who brings a wealth of experience from his roles in the Progressive Professionals Forum, the Black Management Forum, and the Black Business Forum, expressed his eagerness to discuss his future within MKP with Zuma. He noted that his specific role in the party would be determined after further discussions with the former president.
The announcement of Shivambu and Manyi’s defection has caused ripples within the political landscape, particularly among those who see the move as a significant boost for MKP. Mdunge acknowledged that the news has sparked concern among some, especially those with political ambitions of their own. However, he reassured supporters that the relationship between MKP and EFF within the Progressive Caucus, established to challenge the ANC/DA-led Government of National Unity (GNU), remains strong.
Mdunge also hinted at the possibility of more defections to MKP, not just from EFF but from the ANC as well. He noted that growing dissatisfaction within the union Cosatu and the South African Communist Party (SACP) with the GNU could lead to a surge in MKP’s ranks. As Mdunge put it, MKP is seen as a “new home” for those disillusioned with the current political landscape.
The MKP’s efforts to strengthen its position through strategic alliances and high-profile defections underscore its growing influence in South African politics, especially as it continues to attract seasoned politicians like Shivambu and Manyi.
Source: IOL
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