Afrika Mayibuye Movement party leader, Floyd Shivambu welcomes Papa Penny.
The political landscape in Limpopo has shifted once again as popular musician and veteran politician Gezani Erik Nkovani, widely known as Papa Penny, officially joined the Afrika Mayibuye Movement.
The announcement was made by the party leader, Floyd Shivambu, who warmly welcomed the legendary artist into the fold.
Shivambu stated that Papa Penny would take on a critical leadership role by spearheading the party’s campaign efforts in the Greater Giyani Municipality. With characteristic confidence, Shivambu declared that Giyani is set to be won by Mayibuye in the upcoming local government elections.
Papa Penny brings extensive political experience to his new home. His journey has taken him through various high-profile roles, including serving as an ANC Branch Chairperson and a ward councillor. Most recently, he served as a Member of Parliament for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). His decision to join Mayibuye follows a period of internal tension within his previous party.
By moving to Mayibuye, Papa Penny joins another prominent Giyani native, Ponani Makhubele, who has also been active in the region’s shifting political scene. Makhubele’s own journey has been equally complex, having moved from the ANC to the MK Party, returning briefly to the ANC, and ultimately settling with ActionSA. The movement of these high-profile figures highlights the intense competition for local influence as politicians search for platforms that align with their vision for service delivery.
The decision to unleash a figure as popular as Papa Penny into Giyani is expected to heighten the political temperature significantly ahead of the local government elections on November 4, 2026. Papa Penny’s deep roots in Tsonga-speaking communities and his reputation as a man of the people make him a powerful asset for any organization. His involvement provides Mayibuye with an immediate and recognizable voice in the region.
This development arrives at a difficult time for the African National Congress. The ruling party is currently facing a massive challenge as it deals with a persistent deluge of member resignations. Many long-standing activists and senior leaders have recently abandoned the ANC to join rival groups, including the South African Communist Party and ActionSA.
As the election date approaches, the political map of Limpopo is being redrawn. With new movements like Mayibuye actively recruiting well-known local leaders, the upcoming polls promise to be a stern test for the ANC. It remains to be seen how the ruling party will manage to maintain its support base in the face of such aggressive and star-studded opposition. For now, the people of Giyani can expect a busy and highly competitive campaign season as the Afrika Mayibuye Movement makes its big push