Floyd Shivambu’s New Political Vision Gains Ground in KZN With Backing From Former EFF Leader

Floyd Shivambu’s call to the South African public to help shape a new political future is already echoing in KwaZulu-Natal and one of the first prominent voices to rally behind him is none other than former EFF provincial chairperson Vusi Khoza.

In a political climate marked by disillusionment and splintering loyalties, Khoza’s support could prove significant. Once a leading figure in the EFF and more recently linked to Jacob Zuma’s MK Party (MKP), Khoza has now thrown his weight behind Shivambu’s consultative drive, dubbed Mayibuye.

The Return of a Revolutionary Spirit?

Speaking about his decision, Khoza made it clear that his interest isn’t just about personalities, it’s about purpose.

“We need a new party that genuinely represents the people,” he said. “The ones we have now are saying all the right things but doing the opposite.”

He’s already signed up as a volunteer in the Mayibuye initiative, which invites South Africans to shape the possible formation of a new political party. Shivambu has positioned it not as a top-down party launch, but a grassroots consultation process to determine whether there’s public appetite for a new leftist political home.

Khoza confirmed he will be part of the Mayibuye events in KwaZulu-Natal, eager to hear Shivambu out. “If he makes sense, I’ll support him fully and be part of what he builds,” he added.

Political History, Personal Stakes

Vusi Khoza isn’t new to political reinvention. He became EFF’s KZN chair in 2017, growing the party’s provincial presence from two to eight seats by 2019. But in 2022, he lost his post to then-deputy Mongezi Twala and was later removed from parliament altogether, reportedly for failing to deliver 10 buses to the EFF’s 10th anniversary rally.

Still, his political instincts remain sharp, and his endorsement suggests Shivambu’s movement may attract support from others disillusioned by the current state of South Africa’s opposition politics.

Khoza also praised Shivambu as “the best Secretary-General MKP has had,” crediting him with bringing financial and political stability to the party before his recent expulsion.

Fallout at MKP and the Bushiri Connection

Shivambu’s departure from the MKP has been the subject of speculation and controversy. Officially, the party cited his unsanctioned Easter trip to Malawi, where he met with fugitive pastor Shepherd Bushiri as the reason for his removal.

But Shivambu has a different story. He says the Malawi trip was a smokescreen, and the real reason for his dismissal was internal power struggle, an alleged accusation that he was plotting to replace Jacob Zuma as the party’s leader.

His response? Let the people decide.

What is Mayibuye?

The Mayibuye initiative isn’t a political party, yet. Shivambu has framed it as an open platform for South Africans to discuss what kind of political movement, if any, they want to see emerge. Online forms and volunteer sign-ups are already in circulation, and plans are in motion to host dialogues across the provinces.

On social media, early reaction has been mixed but curious. Some former EFF and MKP supporters have welcomed the possibility of a “fresh leftist front,” while others remain skeptical, questioning whether this is just another ego-driven splinter group in disguise.

A Nation of Broken Promises

The larger context cannot be ignored. South Africa’s political arena has grown increasingly fragmented, with growing frustration over inequality, corruption, and the perceived failure of parties to deliver on basic services. From rural municipalities to inner-city wards, many voters feel politically homeless.

Shivambu’s gamble taps into that disillusionment. Whether it can become a movement with real traction will depend not just on former allies like Khoza, but on how deeply his message resonates with everyday South Africans.

For now, the Mayibuye train is leaving the station and KZN looks to be its first major stop.

Source:IOL

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