Residents of KZN back new political movement: the rise of Mayibuye

The political landscape of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) may be on the brink of transformation as the Mayibuye iAfrika movement, led by convener Vusi Khoza, gathers significant momentum from local residents.

Mayibuye held a  series of consultative sessions across the province over a few days, which ended with a gathering at the Hollywood Bets Greyville Racecourse yesterday.

The Old Prison in Pietermaritzburg was the venue for the first session on Wednesday.

All the consultations were led by Bishop Stephen Zondo.

Khoza announced that the majority of attendees expressed strong support for the formation of a new political party, with the main purpose to address the needs and aspirations of KZN's diverse population.

“We are happy with the turnout. The people of KZN have endorsed Mayibuye and unanimously backed the idea of starting a new political movement. We are definitely forming a political party. The people of KZN will overwhelmingly support and vote for Mayibuye,” he stated. His confidence underscored a burgeoning belief that the new party could resonate deeply with voters already disillusioned by existing political structures.

Among the attendees was Ntokozo Ndlovu, a student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, who shared her vision for the movement, highlighting its potential to appeal to young, educated voters and the middle class. “I believe Mayibuye would represent the majority,” she noted.

“I welcome the idea of forming a political movement that will serve as an alternative to the current political parties, which are not serving the needs of many people,” said Ndlovu. Her fervent support for the movement stems from her belief in the leadership of Floyd Shivambu, whom she viewed as a knowledgeable and capable figure in South African politics.

Samkelo Mthembu from Richards Bay echoed Ndlovu's sentiments and praised Shivambu’s political journey, asserting that any party that let him go had lost a valuable asset. Mthembu recounted his long-standing commitment to Shivambu’s vision, reflecting on their shared history within the ANC Youth League.

“We believe in you, we know you,” he passionately stated to the crowd, underscoring the personal connections that underpinned the movement's appeal.

However, political analyst Siphamandla Zondi offered a cautious perspective on the movement's potential to translate enthusiasm into actual votes in the upcoming elections. “It is not yet clear how much support would translate into votes, whether in by-elections or full elections. The turnout at consultations cannot firmly confirm the presence of support,” he explained.

Zondi's insights revealed the complexities of voter mobilisation and the need for effective campaigning strategies to turn vocal support into electoral success. He pointed out that while charisma was an essential component of leadership, organisational capacity plays an equally crucial role.

He suggested that the Mayibuye movement could potentially mirror the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in its formative years, aiming for significant impact despite being a smaller entity, and perhaps even becoming a “kingmaker” in future elections.

As the movement prepared to translate its grassroots support into broader political traction, all eyes will be on their campaign strategies leading up to the upcoming local elections.

While addressing supporters in Durban on Sunday, Shivambu revealed that eight provinces had given him the go-ahead to form a political movement, which included a political party that will contest elections, starting with next year's local government elections.

He said the political movement will consist of civil society organisations, civic organisations, and a workers’ union, amongst others.

DAILY NEWS