Floyd Shivambu announces Mayibuye Movement launch ahead of 2026 local elections
National Convenor of Mayibuye iAfrika Floyd Shivambu says the movement is not a breakaway from the ANC, EFF, and MK Party, saying it will grow bigger than all of the three parties.
Image: X@FloydShivambu
Floyd Shivambu, the leader of the burgeoning Mayibuye Movement, has officially confirmed that the nationwide consultation process for his new political party has ended, with a clear focus on contesting the crucial 2026 local government elections.
Shivambu has also announced that the new party would likely be launched this month.
Shivambu made his intention to contest elections three weeks ago, following extensive engagements across the country, signalling his firm intent to re-enter the political fray after his recent departure from the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party.
Shivambu, who has been the national convenor of the Mayibuye consultation process, revealed that the movement is already in the process of registering as a political party with the Electoral Commission of SA (IEC).
Speaking during an address in Gauteng, he said consultations so far have indicated that South Africans are ready for a revolutionary movement.
The 'Afrika Mayibuye' movement is already being registered as a political party which claims an "overwhelming" endorsement from communities for its formation.
However, experts and politicians have cautioned that Shivambu could face challenges in registering the name "Mayibuye" as a political party gearing up to contest next year's elections.
Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, who claims to be former president and freedom fighter's great grandson has already objected on social media saying he would be waiting for Shivambu to register the party.
Mandela previously hogged the headlines when he joined the EFF after Shivambu abandoned the party.
The IEC could not confirm as to whether Shivambu had already started the process of registering his new party.
During a trip to KwaZulu-Natal, Shivambu elaborated on this dual identity, explaining that it would incorporate a diverse range of civic groups and civil society organisations.
"This approach aims to create a wide-reaching platform for change, moving beyond traditional party structures," he said.
Shivambu's political resurgence comes hot on the heels of his removal and subsequent expulsion from the MK Party in June 2025.
This followed his initiation of the Mayibuye consultative process, demonstrating his resilience and determination to remain a significant figure in South African politics.
He has been a vocal critic of established parties, including the ANC, EFF, and his former home, the MK Party, contending that they are "not adequate enough to fight the battles ahead".
"The consultation process itself has been comprehensive, involving engagements with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including faith-based, religious, and traditional leaders across the country," according to Shivambu.
Political analyst Metjie Makgoba pointed out the potential challenges, including objections to the name "Mayibuye", which could lead to administrative hurdles with the IEC.
"Local elections are often a testing ground for new parties. They offer an opportunity to build grassroots support and establish a presence before national elections. Shivambu's explicit aim to contest both the 2026 municipal elections and the 2029 general elections signals a long-term vision.
"The challenge for Mayibuye will be to translate the perceived 'overwhelming' support from consultations into actual votes. Name recognition is one thing, but building a robust party machinery capable of competing effectively in local government elections is another," Makgoba said.