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The MK Party Youth League (MKPYL) has defended Floyd Shivambu, the newly appointed national organiser, against criticism from his former EFF comrades who labelled him a “betrayer” after his resignation from the EFF. MKPYL spokesperson Nkateko Mkhabela dismissed the criticism as “desperate tactics” by those threatened by Shivambu’s move, emphasizing that his experience and leadership will be pivotal in advancing the MK Party’s revolutionary agenda. Mkhabela asserted that the detractors’ reactions stem from fear of the progressive forces reshaping the political landscape, and expressed confidence in Shivambu’s ability to strengthen the party. The full article is available on Times Live.

The MK Party (MKP), a newcomer in South African politics, has overtaken the EFF as the third-largest political party, securing 14.58% of the national vote. The MKP also lured EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu, causing turmoil within the EFF. Shivambu, now the MKP’s national organizer, was praised by MKP leaders, including Jacob Zuma, who commended his strategic decision-making. The move has strained relations between Shivambu and EFF leader Julius Malema, who accused him of betrayal. The MKP’s rise and Shivambu’s defection have significantly impacted the EFF, which had expected to gain more support in the elections. For more details, refer to the original article from Times Live.

Image credit: Floyd Shivambu, X

The MK Party (MKP) has undergone a leadership reshuffle, with former EFF leader Floyd Shivambu appointed as the party’s national organiser. The announcement was made by MKP secretary-general Sifiso Maseko on behalf of party president Jacob Zuma. The newly formed national high command, which is the top decision-making body, includes key figures such as Zuma as president, Dr. John Hlophe as deputy president, and Nkosinathi Nhleko as national chair. The changes were revealed during a media briefing in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Image credit: Floyd Shivambu, X platform

According to a report by News24, US singer and actor Jennifer Lopez has filed for divorce from her husband Ben Affleck after two years of marriage. Lopez filed for divorce on August 20 in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, listing April 26, 2024, as their separation date. The filing follows reports that the couple has been living separately, with Lopez canceling her summer tour and the couple putting their Beverly Hills home up for sale. Lopez and Affleck, who earned the nickname Bennifer, first met in 2002, got engaged in 2003, and split in 2004 before reuniting and marrying in July 2022. The couple, who had a Las Vegas wedding followed by a traditional ceremony in Georgia, does not share any children together but has five from previous relationships.

EFF leader Julius Malema has taken a combative stance against his former deputy, Floyd Shivambu, and any potential defectors from the party. Initially, Malema expressed goodwill towards Shivambu when he left to join the MK Party, even suggesting Shivambu could return to the EFF if his new venture failed. However, in a subsequent speech, Malema’s tone shifted dramatically as he accused Shivambu of betrayal and expressed deep frustration with those who might use the upcoming national assembly to further personal ambitions. Malema emphasized that anyone who intends to leave should do so immediately, as he no longer wishes to accommodate those who are not fully committed to the EFF’s mission.

Malema also addressed allegations related to his involvement in government of national unity (GNU) talks, denying any personal ambitions for high-ranking positions and reaffirming his objections to alliances with the DA and Freedom Front Plus. He made significant changes within the EFF, including replacing Shivambu as the chief whip in Parliament and redistributing duties from the deputy president’s office to his own. Malema called on EFF members to unite and protect the party from internal and external threats, warning against opportunism and factionalism. He declared that the EFF would continue its fight despite the challenges, asserting that the party has not wronged anyone and remains dedicated to its revolutionary mission.

Image credit: EFF, X

Professor Susan Booysen, a political analyst from Wits University, commented on the challenges facing the EFF following the resignation of its deputy leader, Floyd Shivambu. Shivambu’s departure, which some attribute to tensions with party leader Julius Malema, raises concerns about the party’s future growth. Booysen suggests that the EFF may struggle to expand, although she doesn’t believe it’s a dying party. She also notes that Shivambu’s move to the MK Party (MKP), led by Jacob Zuma, could spark further defections from the EFF. However, the MKP’s ability to accommodate non-Zulu leaders like Shivambu remains uncertain, Times Live reports.

Floyd Shivambu has resigned as the EFF’s deputy president following a reported fallout with party leader Julius Malema, News24 reports. Sources indicate that Shivambu was approached by wealthy businesspeople offering financial support for him to challenge Malema at the upcoming party congress, a move that Malema quickly discovered, leading to heightened tensions. The EFF is expected to announce Shivambu’s resignation, along with others, during a media briefing. Shivambu’s departure is further complicated by lingering allegations from the VBS Mutual Bank scandal, which accuse him and Malema of involvement in fraudulent activities.

Image credit: Floyd Shivambu, X platform

Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old, recently withdrew from the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant following intense xenophobic attacks and backlash on social media, IOL reports. After being rejected by South Africans who argued that she did not represent the country due to her Mozambican and Nigerian heritage, Adetshina received an invitation to participate in Miss Universe Nigeria. The organizers of the Nigerian pageant encouraged her to represent her father’s native land on an international stage. Adetshina accepted the offer and shared her excitement on Instagram, expressing her gratitude for the opportunity. She explained that her decision to withdraw from Miss SA was influenced by concerns for her safety and that of her family, given the hostility she faced online.

According to Glamour magazine, award-winning beauty content creator Mihlali Ndamase recently addressed her YouTube audience regarding the controversies surrounding her relationship with businessman Leeroy Sidambe. The couple’s relationship, which began while Leeroy was still married, has been marred by public scrutiny, leading to Mihlali being labeled a “home wrecker” despite her successful career. The situation worsened after Mihlali posted images of her bruised face on social media, implying that Leeroy was responsible. Their relationship has been further complicated by a public breakup, a viral video of Leeroy with another woman, and accusations of a physical altercation. Leeroy claimed that Mihlali tried to stab him during a confrontation, while Mihlali has countered by accusing him of being a narcissist. The ongoing drama has sparked intense debate on social media, particularly around the sensitive issue of gender-based violence in South Africa.

Image credit: Mihlali Ndamase, Instagram

According to Times Lives, the crowning of Mia le Roux as Miss South Africa has sparked a mixed response, particularly after Nigerian singer Burna Boy mocked the outcome on social media. The criticism comes amid a larger debate about inclusivity in the pageant, especially after former contestant Chidimma Vanessa, who has Nigerian and Mozambican heritage, withdrew following questions about her suitability to represent South Africa. Sport, arts, and culture minister Gayton McKenzie responded by emphasizing the importance of a nonracial society, celebrating the progress South Africa has made in reconciliation. Le Roux, who made history as the first hearing-impaired winner in the pageant’s 66-year history, has been praised for her representation of the deaf community. Her victory is seen by many, including Deaf SA’s Western Cape director Jabaar Mohamed, as a milestone for inclusivity and a beacon of change for the country.