Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla apologizes after criticizing Floyd Shivambu on social media

MK Party MP Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla has issued a public apology following a series of scathing tweets aimed at party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu.

The apology comes after her posts drew criticism and were seen as undermining the unity of the MK Party.

Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of party leader Jacob Zuma, made waves on social media when she labeled Shivambu the “worst thing that has happened to the party.”

In a series of explosive tweets, she expressed her dissatisfaction with Shivambu’s role in the party, even claiming to be the real co-founder of the MK Party.

“Floyd, I’m not scared of you. Tell your minions to f*** off, bloody mafikizolos [newbies],” she wrote in one tweet, followed by another expressing her disdain: “F** you, Floyd.” She also described Shivambu as the “worst thing that happened to the MK Party” and stated that while the party might expel her for her remarks, she was prepared to accept the consequences.

“They will expel me tomorrow. It is well with my soul. Still, Floyd is useless,” she added.

In response to the backlash, the MK Party ordered Zuma-Sambudla to apologize for her choice of words. She later acknowledged the mistake and issued an apology to the party and its leadership.

“As a committed and disciplined member of the MK Party, I hereby extend this unconditional public apology to president Zuma and MK Party leadership for the profanity used in my recent posts on X,” Zuma-Sambudla said in her official apology.

She clarified that while she held strong personal views about certain internal party issues, including concerns over Shivambu’s influence, she recognized that these concerns should have been addressed through the proper channels within the organization.

“I fully recognise that such concerns should have been and shall be addressed through the proper internal channels, as dictated by the core values and principles of the glorious movement of the people,” she stated.

Zuma-Sambudla also acknowledged the negative impact of her public outburst, which she felt could have undermined the unity, discipline, and respect that are integral to the MK Party. She emphasized that her use of profanity did not reflect the values upheld by the organization.

“To president Zuma of the MK Party, the entire leadership, members, supporters of the MK Party and the people of South Africa, I wish to assure you that I never intended to harm the integrity of the party or the values it upholds,” she said.

She also offered her formal apologies to the structures she serves in, affirming her dedication to her roles and the party’s principles.

“I hope my apology is received in the spirit of accountability, revolutionary solidarity and a genuine commitment to upholding the values of the MK Party,” she added.

Zuma-Sambudla concluded by expressing her willingness to cooperate with any internal party processes deemed necessary to address the issue.