Floyd Shivambu is one of South Africa’s most controversial and influential political figures. From his humble beginnings in Limpopo to his rise in politics, Shivambu’s journey has been marked by power moves, controversies, and unwavering determination. Here are 21 key facts about Floyd Shivambu that you need to know:
1. Early Life in Limpopo
Floyd Shivambu was born on January 1, 1983, in Mahonisi, a rural village in Malamulele, Limpopo. Raised in a household without running water or electricity, his parents supported the family through informal trading, selling handmade duvets and pillowcases. This humble upbringing shaped his perspective on economic inequality.
2. Educational Background
Shivambu graduated from Mphambo High School in 2001 before pursuing higher education at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits). Initially aiming to become a technician, he later shifted his focus, earning a bachelor’s degree, an honors degree in Political Studies and International Relations, and a master’s degree with distinction in Political Studies in 2014.
3. Leadership at Wits University
During his time at Wits, Shivambu’s leadership abilities emerged. In his third year, he was elected president of the Student Representative Council. This role marked his entry into political activism, laying the foundation for his political career.
4. Involvement with the ANC Youth League
Shivambu joined the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) during his university days. He served as the league’s spokesperson from 2008 to 2012, gaining a reputation for his bold and often controversial statements.
5. Co-Founding the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)
After his suspension from the ANC alongside Julius Malema, Shivambu co-founded the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in 2013. He served as the party’s Deputy President and Chief Whip in Parliament until August 2024.
6. Role in the Pan-African Parliament
Between 2014 and 2018, Shivambu was a member of the Pan-African Parliament, contributing to discussions on rural economy, agriculture, and natural resources.
7. Shift to uMkhonto weSizwe
On August 15, 2024, Floyd Shivambu made headlines by leaving the EFF to join Jacob Zuma’s newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe party. He was appointed as the party’s Secretary General, marking a significant political shift.
8. Close Alliance with Julius Malema
Since their days in the ANC Youth League, Shivambu and Julius Malema were close political allies. Together, they shaped the EFF’s radical economic stance, but their political paths diverged in 2024.
9. Controversial Statements and Actions
Shivambu has never shied away from controversy. In 2011, he was removed as the ANC Youth League spokesperson after swearing at a journalist and commenting on Botswana’s political situation.
10. Assault of a Journalist
In March 2018, Shivambu was filmed attacking a journalist outside Parliament. The incident drew widespread criticism and legal consequences.
11. Paternity Scandal
In 2015, Shivambu was involved in a highly publicized paternity scandal. After initially denying paternity, he later acknowledged his son after a paternity test.
12. Racism Accusations
Shivambu faced backlash for questioning the frequent appearances of Ismail Momoniat, a South African Indian official, in parliamentary presentations. His comments were widely condemned as racially prejudiced.
13. VBS Mutual Bank Scandal
The VBS Mutual Bank scandal is one of the most significant controversies surrounding Shivambu. Investigative reports alleged that his brother, Brian Shivambu, received over R16 million in irregular payments, with a portion allegedly flowing to Floyd Shivambu. He has denied any involvement.
14. Book Co-Editor
In 2014, Shivambu co-edited “The Coming Revolution: Julius Malema and the Fight for Economic Freedom,” which provides insights into the formation of the EFF and its economic vision.
15. Passionate About Economic Transformation
As the EFF’s Deputy President, Shivambu was known for his firm stance on economic transformation, advocating for land expropriation without compensation and nationalization of strategic sectors.
16. Ambitions for Finance Ministry
Following the 2024 general election, Julius Malema stated that a coalition with the ANC would be conditional on Shivambu’s appointment as Minister of Finance, highlighting his influence within the EFF.
17. Speeding Incident
In August 2018, Shivambu was arrested for driving at 182 km/h in a 120 km/h zone, adding to his list of public controversies.
18. Doctoral Pursuit
On February 6, 2018, Shivambu announced his acceptance into the Wits School of Governance to pursue a PhD, focusing on South Africa’s transformation policies and ownership structures.
19. Criticisms of Political Opponents
Shivambu is known for his sharp criticism of political opponents, often using social media to express his views on South Africa’s political landscape.
20. Role in South African Finance Committees
As Chief Whip of the EFF, Shivambu served on the Trade and Industry Portfolio Committee and the Standing Committee on Finance, influencing economic policy discussions.
21. Legacy and Influence
Despite his controversies, Floyd Shivambu remains a formidable political figure in South Africa, known for his unapologetic stance on economic freedom and social justice. His move to uMkhonto weSizwe signals a new chapter in his political journey.