Quote from Alex bobby on June 5, 2025, 3:19 AM

South African Politician Sacked Over Visit to Fugitive Pastor Shepherd Bushiri

In a dramatic shake-up within one of South Africa’s rising political movements, Floyd Shivambu has been dismissed as secretary-general of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party following a controversial visit to fugitive Malawian preacher Shepherd Bushiri. The incident has stirred public debate, highlighting tensions within the party and raising questions about political accountability and leadership stability.

A Controversial Visit

Floyd Shivambu, a prominent figure who joined the MK party from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in 2023, attended an Easter service at Shepherd Bushiri’s Jesus Nation Church in Malawi this April. The visit ignited backlash after footage of the event circulated online, with Bushiri publicly welcoming Shivambu and the politician praising the controversial preacher for his “good work” in a repost on social media.

Shepherd Bushiri, once a towering figure in Southern Africa’s evangelical circles, fled South Africa in 2020 while facing fraud and money laundering charges. His dramatic escape, despite being out on bail, raised diplomatic tensions between South Africa and Malawi. South African authorities have been pushing for his extradition ever since, but Bushiri maintains his innocence and continues to fight legal proceedings aimed at returning him to face trial.

Party Response and Leadership Fallout

The MK party, which was founded in late 2023 by former South African President Jacob Zuma, acted swiftly in response to Shivambu’s visit. During a press conference on Wednesday, MK national chair Nathi Nhleko announced that the trip was not sanctioned by the party and was "against the spirit and prescripts of the MK party's constitution."

“The president and national officials were left with no other option but to act swiftly,” Nhleko stated, making it clear that Shivambu’s removal was based on principles, not personal grievances.

Despite the demotion, Shivambu will remain within the party and has been reassigned to represent MK in the National Assembly. In a statement, Shivambu said he “fully accepts” the decision and looks forward to contributing in his new role in parliament.

A Meteoric Rise and Swift Fall

Shivambu’s trajectory within the MK party was rapid. Appointed secretary-general shortly after joining the party in August 2023, he played a key role in the MK’s surprising performance in South Africa’s national elections, where it placed third—helping unseat the African National Congress (ANC) from its long-held majority for the first time since 1994.

However, his leadership tenure was not without turbulence. Political analyst Sanet Solomon from the University of the Free State described Shivambu’s removal as “expected” given the controversy and ongoing internal tensions. She noted that this latest development highlights deeper instability within the MK party, which is now preparing to welcome its sixth secretary-general in less than two years of existence.

“These changes further exacerbate concerns around the party's stability,” Solomon said. She added that Shivambu’s leadership style and frequent clashes with fellow party leaders—including a public spat with Jacob Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile—contributed to his political downfall.

The Shadow of Shepherd Bushiri

The fallout from Shivambu’s visit to Shepherd Bushiri underscores the divisive nature of the preacher’s legacy. Bushiri, who amassed wealth through his churches across Africa, has been accused of exploiting vulnerable followers. His "miracle" merchandise—such as “anointed oil” and spiritual breakthroughs—has drawn both fervent believers and harsh critics.

He has faced allegations ranging from fraud and money laundering to sexual assault, all of which he and his wife Mary vehemently deny. While still operating from Malawi, he continues to wield influence over segments of the public, particularly those desperate for hope amid economic hardship.

By aligning with Bushiri, even symbolically, Shivambu placed himself at odds with his party's commitment to ethical governance and political credibility. His praise of a fugitive pastor wanted for serious crimes in South Africa raised red flags within both the MK party and the broader political landscape.

Implications for the MK Party

While Shivambu’s reassignment may defuse immediate tensions, it also reveals ongoing fractures within the MK party's leadership. Critics argue that constant leadership reshuffles damage public trust and hamper policy development in a party still seeking to define its long-term agenda.

Shivambu’s sacking is not just a disciplinary matter—it’s a reflection of the growing pains within a movement that emerged as a populist response to widespread dissatisfaction with the ANC. The MK party's ability to maintain internal unity will be key to sustaining its political momentum.

Political observers will be watching closely to see if Shivambu ultimately remains loyal to the MK party—or if this episode marks the beginning of his departure from a political home he helped legitimize on the national stage.

Final Thoughts

Floyd Shivambu’s visit to Shepherd Bushiri’s church may have lasted only a few hours, but its political consequences have reverberated across South Africa’s political landscape. In a nation already grappling with issues of corruption, leadership accountability, and public trust, the intersection of faith, politics, and controversy serves as a powerful reminder that optics matter—especially when the public is watching.

As the MK party navigates its leadership challenges, it must strike a balance between swift discipline and long-term stability. Meanwhile, Shivambu’s future within the party—and South African politics more broadly—remains uncertain.