By Simon Nare
MK Party leader and former president Jacob Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, has finally apologised to party secretary-general Floyd Shivambu over a public spat on social media.
In a second attempt at her public apology, Zuma-Sambudla this time directed her “sincere” apology to Shivambu for her behavior, which she said had caused offence, division and disruption within the party and beyond.
“It was never my intention to undermine the principles of unity, respect and discipline that are the foundation of our movement. I acknowledge that my words and action have violated the party’s Disciplinary Code of Conduct and I deeply regret any harm they may have caused,” she said.
She added that she took full responsibility for her statements and committed to upholding the values and integrity of the party moving forward.
Zuma-Sambudla extended “my formal and unreserved apologies” to all structures she served in, including the South African Parliament and the Southern Caucus of the Pan-African Parliament.
“I remain committed to working towards unity, progress and the total liberation of our people. I humbly ask for the understanding and forgiveness of my fellow comrades and the South African public.
“I assure you all that I will reflect on this moment and use it as an opportunity for growth, discipline and renewed commitment to the party’s mission with humility and respect,” she said.
This is Zuma-Sambudla’s second public apology following her fallout with Shivambu on X, which exploded when she reacted to a post by a MK Party member honouring Shivambu, to which she responded by saying he was the worst thing that has happened to the party.
Zuma ordered her to apologise to the party and its leadership, and personally to Shivambu. However, in her first apology, she deliberately chose not to mention the secretary-general.
He warned his daughter that if she did not comply, it would lead to immediate consequences that may include the termination of her membership and a recall from all party responsibilities.
At the time, she did acknowledge that she should not have taken the matter into the public domain.
She had added that even though she held strong views and serious concerns, internal party matters pertaining to Shivambu should have been addressed via internal channels.
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