The uMkhonto weSizwe Party has dismissed Floyd Shivambu from his position as secretary general following his controversial trip to Malawi, citing constitutional violations.

Floyd Shivambu has been stripped of his role as secretary general of South Africa’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party after undertaking what the organisation described as an unauthorised visit to Malawi.

The party said Mr Shivambu’s trip violated its constitution, though he will retain his position as a Member of Parliament representing the MK Party.

The visit sparked significant controversy as Mr Shivambu met with pastor Shepherd Bushiri, a self-proclaimed prophet who remains a fugitive from South African justice. Mr Bushiri fled to Malawi in 2020 while facing fraud and money laundering charges in South Africa.

Mr Shivambu, a prominent political figure who defected from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to join the MK Party last year, faced widespread criticism for the meeting. The pastor, known as “Major 1” to his followers, has been at the centre of various legal battles and remains wanted by South African authorities.

The MK Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, has positioned itself as a significant player in South African politics since its formation. Mr Shivambu’s high-profile switch from the EFF was seen as a major coup for the organisation.

The party has not yet announced who will replace Mr Shivambu in the secretary general position. Despite his removal from the leadership role, he will continue to serve as an MP, suggesting the party views his parliamentary contribution as valuable while drawing a line at his recent conduct.

Neither Mr Shivambu nor representatives for Pastor Bushiri were immediately available for comment on the developments.