Floyd Shivambu, Secretary-General of the Umkhonto Wesizwe Party (MKP), has confirmed that extensive transportation arrangements have been made for party members across KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in preparation for the MKP’s first anniversary celebrations. Speaking at a media briefing held at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Wednesday, Shivambu outlined the logistical plans for the event, which will take place on Sunday, December 15, 2024. The anniversary celebrations will be a key milestone for the party, with the focus on uniting members and amplifying their political message.
According to Shivambu, free transport will be provided for party members from all 11 regions of KZN, including the 44 municipalities within the province. Buses, taxis, and trains from key routes will be used to ferry attendees to Moses Mabhida Stadium for the rally, ensuring that the event remains accessible to a broad base of local supporters. However, Shivambu clarified that the MKP would not be able to offer transport for members from outside KZN due to logistical constraints. “We have secured transportation for all 11 regions of KwaZulu-Natal and 44 municipalities. We are not able to provide transport for members from other provinces, as the capacity of the stadium and our logistical preparations are not sufficient to accommodate the entire country,” he explained.
Shivambu also made arrangements for members traveling from outside KZN who wish to attend the celebrations, stating that they would be responsible for their own transportation. For those traveling by train, MKP has partnered with Prasa to provide free train services from KwaMashu, Cato Ridge, and uMlazi. This collaborative effort ensures that transport options are as inclusive as possible for those in the region. Shivambu also assured attendees that all necessary preparations have been made to ensure the event runs smoothly, particularly in terms of security and safety measures.
To maintain a safe and respectful environment, Shivambu emphasized that no firearms or dangerous weapons would be allowed inside Moses Mabhida Stadium. Furthermore, only approved traditional regalia will be permitted, and the event will be alcohol-free. In line with stringent security protocols, any drones in the vicinity will require prior approval from both stadium authorities and the South African Police Service (SAPS). These measures aim to ensure that the celebrations are peaceful and orderly, reflecting the disciplined nature of the MKP as a liberation movement.
The anniversary event will commence with a rally at Moses Mabhida Stadium on December 15, beginning at 7 am. Attendees will be welcomed with entertainment and an interfaith prayer session before the official program begins at 12 pm. The celebrations will continue with a gala dinner at the Olive Convention Centre on Monday, December 16, further marking the party’s first year of existence. Shivambu expressed his gratitude to the 12 Apostles Church in Christ for their hospitality during recent engagements, reinforcing the MKP’s focus on uniting progressive forces across South Africa.
Looking to the future, Shivambu revealed the party’s plans for expansion in 2025, including the establishment of voting district offices and regional structures throughout the country. Additionally, the MKP plans to host a policy conference to address issues of electoral fraud, further cementing its commitment to electoral integrity and social justice. “Umkhonto Wesizwe is a disciplined liberation movement fighting for total emancipation and freedom,” Shivambu concluded. He affirmed that the first anniversary celebrations would serve as a powerful demonstration of the MKP’s commitment to uniting progressive forces and amplifying the voices of the oppressed in South Africa.
