Robert Nwedo hands in his resignation, leaving the fledgling Afrika Mayibuye Movement without a deputy president just weeks after the ouster of its first deputy, and says he will focus on the newly‑formed MAWUSA union. Picture Credits: Pondoland Times
By Duncan Mnisi
South Africa – The Afrika Mayibuye Movement (AMM) is facing a fresh leadership crisis after deputy president Robert Nwedo abruptly resigned on Tuesday.
In a letter circulated on social media, Nwedo announced that he was stepping down “with immediate effect” to focus on championing workers’ rights through the Maanda Ashu Workers Union of South Africa (MAWUSA), where he now serves as president.
“I will be focusing my energy on the workers and the poor of South Africa,” he wrote, adding that his move was driven by a desire to “continue serving the people under the banner of MAWUSA.”
His departure comes barely a month after the AMM removed its first deputy president, Dr Nolubabalo Mcinga, over alleged organisational and political misconduct.
Party leader Floyd Shivambu — who launched the AMM in September following a turbulent exit from the EFF and MK Party — now finds himself without either of his two deputies.
“We wish Robert the best in his new endeavour and remain committed to the struggle for true liberation and emancipation of the people,” the party said in a statement.
Political analysts warn that the twin exits could destabilise the young movement at a vulnerable stage in its development. The AMM has styled itself as a “unique, revolutionary response” to growing voter disillusionment, particularly after turnout dropped to 39.7% in the 2024 elections.
Commentator Dr Ntsikelelo Breakfast said the resignations highlight “the instability within smaller political movements as they navigate leadership tensions and strategic alliances ahead of the next election cycle.”
Nwedo’s exit also sheds light on internal discord within the party. A senior insider told the Sunday Times that Nwedo “frequently sidelined others in the leadership and made decisions without consulting,” suggesting growing frustration behind the scenes.
As the movement works to regain its footing, the AMM says it will prioritise strengthening its structures, focusing on provincial inductions, branch establishment and political education. Disciplinary proceedings against Mcinga remain ongoing.
For now, the resignation leaves the Afrika Mayibuye Movement without a deputy president — and facing renewed questions about cohesion, direction and stability in South Africa’s crowded political landscape.
