DURBAN, South Africa – Jacob Zuma will hold a crucial press briefing today amid growing speculation about major leadership changes within his MK Party, including the potential removal of secretary-general Floyd Shivambu.
Former South African President Jacob Zuma is set to address the media today, 03 June 2025, at 14:00 at the Coastlands Skye Hotel in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, to discuss the latest political developments surrounding the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, according to party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela.
Leadership Crisis Deepens
Sources speaking anonymously told IOL that Shivambu is likely to be moved from his secretary-general position to Parliament as an ordinary member. The former Economic Freedom Fighters deputy president has faced mounting criticism from within the party, particularly from Zuma’s daughter Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla.
“Zuma will announce that today during the briefing. He will not be totally out of the party but he will be given a position in parliament,” one insider revealed.
The speculation intensified after Shivambu met Bushiri in Malawi in April and attended his Easter church service, drawing sharp criticism from party members who viewed the association with the fugitive pastor as damaging to the party’s reputation.
Recent Parliamentary Changes
The potential Shivambu announcement comes just days after the party removed Mzwanele Manyi as parliamentary chief whip. Manyi will be replaced by party newcomer Colleen Makhubele, who was sworn in at Parliament four months ago, National Assembly Speaker Thoko Didiza confirmed.
It has been reported that Manyi’s removal was prompted by his fallout with deputy president Dr John Hlophe, stemming from the SONA scandal where Manyi reportedly duped Hlophe into delivering a speech under the pretext that it had been supplied by Zuma. The controversy allegedly led to heated arguments between the two leaders.
Internal Power Struggles
The MK Party has been plagued by leadership instability since its formation in December 2023. Shivambu will be the party’s fifth secretary-general since it was launched about eleven months ago, highlighting the turbulent nature of the organisation’s internal dynamics.
Tensions within the party have been evident, with Zuma-Sambudla previously criticising Shivambu’s leadership before later issuing a public apology. There were allegations that Shivambu planned to bring additional EFF members into the party and “run the party his own way.”
Party Spokesperson Remains Tight-Lipped
When contacted about the rumoured changes, MK Party spokesman Nhlamulo Ndhlela said: “Unfortunately I cannot respond to rumours.” However, he confirmed that today’s press briefing would address significant political developments.
Electoral Success Amid Chaos
Despite internal turmoil, the MK Party emerged as a major force in South African politics, securing 14.58% of national votes in the 2024 elections. The party particularly dominated in KwaZulu-Natal, where it became the leading political force, capitalising on Zuma’s enduring popularity in his home province.
Looking Ahead
This address comes at a time of significant internal challenges within the MK Party, including leadership changes and parliamentary controversies, as well as growing tensions in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) politics. Zuma’s speech is expected to clarify the party’s direction and address mounting speculation about further leadership changes.
