Unless Julius Malema is sending his best man to destabilise the uMkhonto WeSizwe (MK Party), Floyd Shivambu’s resignation is what they call “touch is a move” in a game of chess. Shivambu’s recent resignation from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to the newly formed MK Party is a surprising shift that has sent ripples through South Africa’s political landscape. As a central figure in the EFF, Shivambu’s departure raises serious questions about his future and the broader implications of this decision. From our perspective, there are five grave mistakes Shivambu may have made by moving to the MK Party.
1. Abandoning established political influence
Floyd Shivambu, as Deputy President of the EFF, held considerable influence within one of South Africa’s most prominent opposition parties. His position allowed him to shape the party’s policies, strategies, and direction, significantly contributing to the EFF’s growing presence in South African politics. An academic radical and master tactician, Shivambu shaped Malema’s career polishing him into the orator he became. Today, Malema can stand on his two feet and does not need many academic hands behind him. Malema has grown academically and his calmness at the resignation of his close allay, Shivambu, shows that academic maturity no political school can teach. Besides, there will be many eager to fill in the gap left by Shivambu. By leaving the EFF for the MK Party, Shivambu has essentially abandoned this well-established platform. The MK Party, being new and untested, lacks the political clout and influence that the EFF has amassed over the years. This move risks diminishing Shivambu’s political relevance and his ability to effect change on a national scale.
2. Alienating a loyal support base
Floyd Shivambu’s departure from the EFF is likely to alienate a substantial portion of his loyal supporters. There will be some residual support and peer academics leaving EFF to join him, but none has any mass mobilisation capacity as was seen in Shivambu’s inability to drum up support in the KwaZulu-Natal province in the just-ended 2024 elections.
The EFF has a dedicated and passionate base that resonates with its radical stance on economic justice, land redistribution, and anti-corruption. Floyd Shivambu’s decision to move to the MK Party, which may not share the same level of ideological clarity or appeal, could lead to disillusionment among his followers. This disconnection from his base could result in a significant loss of political capital and erode the trust and loyalty that he has built over the years. The MK’s competitive nature could suddenly see Shivambu finding himself isolated as a few Zulu academics have already eyed top positions in this organisation. Soon, a clash of personalities will surface. This is a predominantly leftist party and its majority may not be super-excited about having a non-Zulu among its top leadership.
In our view, Shivambu’s tactical prowess will not come to much use as he will not have enough room to manoeuvre.
3. Aligning with an unproven political entity
The MK Party is a new and relatively unproven political entity, making it a risky choice for someone of Floyd Shivambu’s stature. While the MK Party may have noble intentions, it is untested in the political arena and lacks a track record of success or a clear ideological framework. By aligning himself with this unproven party, Floyd Shivambu risks being associated with a movement that may struggle to gain traction or credibility in South Africa’s complex political environment. This move could backfire if the MK Party fails to establish itself as a serious contender in the national political landscape.
Watch Floyd Shivambu announce his resignation. Courtesy of SABC News/YouTube
4. Undermining unity within the Left
The EFF has been a unifying force on the left, bringing together various factions and individuals committed to radical economic transformation. Floyd Shivambu’s departure and alignment with the MK Party could potentially fragment the leftist movement in South Africa. Rather than working within the EFF to strengthen and advance its agenda, Shivambu’s decision may lead to divisions and infighting among those who share similar political goals. This fragmentation could weaken the overall impact of the leftist movement, diluting its ability to challenge the status quo effectively.
5. Floyd Shivambu risks political marginalisation
In a country with a highly competitive and crowded political arena, Floyd Shivambu’s move to the MK Party could result in his political marginalisation. The MK Party, as a new entrant, will face significant challenges in gaining visibility and support among voters. Shivambu may find himself sidelined in a party that struggles to secure a foothold in the political landscape. This risk is particularly acute given the dominance of established parties like the African National Congress (ANC), Democratic Alliance (DA), and the EFF. Floyd Shivambu’s influence and relevance may wane if the MK Party fails to gain momentum, leaving him on the fringes of South African politics.
Floyd Shivambu’s decision to move to the MK Party represents a significant gamble with substantial risks. While it is possible that the MK Party could emerge as a formidable force in South African politics, the likelihood of success remains uncertain. Shivambu’s move may undermine his established influence, alienate his support base, and ultimately lead to political marginalisation. But, only time will tell if this decision proves to be a strategic masterstroke or a grave miscalculation.
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