MK Party Erupts: Ndhlela Threatens Legal Action Against Shivambu Over Drug Allegations

MK Party national spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela

A heated feud has erupted within the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, with national spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela threatening to take legal action against former Secretary-General Floyd Shivambu. The conflict began when Shivambu accused Ndhlela of regularly taking drugs and being high on alcohol while dealing with party issues.

Shivambu, who was recently removed from his position as secretary-general, claimed Ndhlela was feeding false information to former President Jacob Zuma, leveraging his connection with Zuma's daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. Shivambu described Ndhlela as a "fool" who is "always on drugs and high on alcohol," escalating tensions within the party. He also criticized Zuma-Sambudla, labeling her "directionless".

Ndhlela denied the allegations, calling Shivambu "clearly wounded" and attempting to smear others following his dismissal. "He is clearly wounded and now trying to drag me through the mud," Ndhlela said. He offered to take a drug test to prove his innocence and accused Shivambu of attempting to hijack the party. Ndhlela also claimed Shivambu had tried to remove Zuma-Sambudla as the MK Party's accounting officer with the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).

Ndhlela confirmed that his lawyers would send Shivambu a letter demanding a public apology. "He will receive correspondence from my attorneys, and the party will also be responding to the matter," he said, adding that he wanted a public apology. The MK Party has not yet issued an official response to Shivambu's accusations.

The dispute has exposed deep divisions within the MK Party, with Shivambu's future in the party uncertain. Shivambu has taken on a new role as national convener of a consultation team exploring the creation of a new political movement, potentially signaling a split from the MK Party. Shivambu's decision to contest the ward 13 by-election independently, alongside his plans for a new party, may further complicate matters for the ANC, with whom the MK Party has had a complex relationship.

The conflict between Ndhlela and Shivambu appears to be rooted in their differing visions for the MK Party. Shivambu's removal as secretary-general was reportedly due to his unauthorized visit to Malawi, where he met with alleged fugitive Shepherd Bushiri. However, Shivambu claims Ndhlela and Zuma-Sambudla used a "fake" intelligence report to orchestrate his removal.

Shivambu has a history of controversy, including his expulsion from the ANC in 2012 alongside Julius Malema. Shivambu was found guilty of contravening the ANC constitution and was suspended from the party for three years. This past conflict may have contributed to the current tensions within the MK Party.

The feud between Ndhlela and Shivambu has significant implications for the MK Party's future. If Shivambu follows through on his plans to form a new party, it could lead to a split in the MK Party's voter base. Additionally, the allegations of drug use and corruption may damage the party's reputation and affect its chances in upcoming elections.

The conflict between Ndhlela and Shivambu has brought the MK Party's internal struggles to the forefront. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the party will navigate this crisis and what implications it will have for South African politics. One thing is certain: the MK Party's future hangs in the balance, and the outcome will likely have significant repercussions for the country's political landscape.