Johannesburg – Former EFF deputy president and ex-MK Party Secretary-General, Cde Floyd Shivambu, is gearing up to officially introduce the founding members of the Mayibuye Consultation Process, a movement he says aims to restore ethical, community-rooted leadership to South African politics.

Following weeks of speculation, Shivambu will host a press conference this week, where he is expected to reveal key figures who will drive grassroots engagements and guide the early formation of his proposed political alternative. This comes after his recent bold declaration in Midrand that he is leading consultations toward the possible formation of a new political party, without resigning from the MK Party.

“This is not about personalities, this is about the soul of South Africa,” Shivambu said during the June media briefing. “We are engaging churches, youth formations, traditional leaders, and communities to decide the way forward.”

The Rise of Mayibuye

The Mayibuye initiative, meaning “let it return” in isiXhosa/Zulu, has already gained the support of more than 10,000 volunteers, according to Shivambu. He says this growing base reflects a public hunger for principled, community-driven politics beyond what is currently offered by dominant parties such as the ANC, EFF, and MK Party.

Insiders say the upcoming press conference will focus on three key areas:

• Announcing the core consultation leadership team, composed of civic leaders, religious figures, and professionals.
• Outlining the timeline and scope of national community dialogues.
• Sharing progress on the IEC registration process and potential 2026 local election participation.

A Political Shift or Political Gamble?

While Shivambu has yet to formally launch a new party, his growing criticism of both the EFF and the MK Party indicates a break with traditional opposition structures. He’s described the EFF as a “cult” and accused current MK Party leadership of “creating a fiefdom of corruption and secrecy.”

His demotion within the MK Party, reportedly triggered by an unapproved visit to controversial preacher Shepherd Bushiri in Malawi, fueled tensions that now seem irreversible. Shivambu claims his removal was a direct result of questioning party finances and internal conduct.

Analysts Remain Divided

Political analysts are split on the potential success of Shivambu’s new initiative. Some argue he lacks the widespread charisma of Julius Malema or the populist appeal of Jacob Zuma. Others suggest the timing may be right for a values-based political movement that targets disillusioned voters.

“South Africans are tired of empty slogans. If Mayibuye remains consultative and solution-oriented, it could surprise many in 2026,” said political commentator Thandi Molefe.

What to Watch For

The upcoming press conference is likely to be a pivotal moment in Shivambu’s evolving political journey. As South Africa enters a new chapter of coalition politics and growing citizen frustration, the emergence of a well-structured alternative may find fertile ground.

Whether Mayibuye becomes a political party or remains a civic movement, one thing is certain: Floyd Shivambu is not done.