I write to formally address the article published by Pretoria News titled “Floyd Shivambu announces Mayibuye Movement launch ahead of 2026 local elections”
The article contains false statements, misleading framing, and reputational attacks on both myself and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). It states: “Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela, who claims to be former president and freedom fighter’s great grandson has already objected on social media saying he would be waiting for Shivambu to register the party. Mandela previously hogged the headlines when he joined the EFF after Shivambu abandoned the party.”
This wording is deliberately misleading. By writing that I “claim” to be the great-grandson of the former president and freedom fighter, the article plants doubt on a matter of fact. My lineage is truth, not a claim, and it does not require the validation of any journalist. The suggestion that I am waiting for Floyd Shivambu to register a party is equally false. I have never expressed any desire to join the so-called Africa Mayibuye Movement and I remain a disciplined member of the EFF. This framing wrongfully gives the impression that I am preparing to defect and align myself with Shivambu, which is an outright lie.
The line that I “hogged the headlines when I joined the EFF after Shivambu abandoned the party” is another deliberate distortion. It frames me as an opportunist who chased publicity in reaction to Shivambu’s departure. My decision to join the EFF was based on conviction, principle, and a commitment to revolutionary politics, not on chasing personalities.
I have publicly clarified my position when people online tried to suggest Shivambu named his party after me. I said: “Floyd Shivambu didn’t name his party after me. Mayibuye is a powerful name with deep roots in our struggle; it belongs to the people, not any single individual.” My words were twisted to fabricate lies about my political intentions.
As a disciplined member of the EFF, I carry the responsibility to defend myself and my organisation against distortions, whether they come from hostile media, opportunistic individuals, or ballot enemies. The Pretoria News article is not neutral reporting. It is an attempt to misinform the public, damage my credibility, and confuse people about my political standing.
I therefore demand that the false statements regarding my alleged involvement with Shivambu’s Africa Mayibuye Movement be removed in full. I demand that the misleading phrasing which casts doubt on my heritage be corrected or retracted. I demand that the suggestion I joined the EFF as a reaction to Shivambu’s departure be withdrawn. Most importantly, Pretoria News must publish a correction and an apology that sets the record straight about my political affiliation and my identity.
The media has a duty to report accurately and fairly. Misrepresentation of public figures, especially those tied to the legacy of struggle, is not only harmful to the individual but also undermines public trust. I expect Pretoria News to take immediate corrective action and demonstrate respect for the truth.
Mayibuye Melisizwe Mandela
Disciplined Member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)