Afrika Mayibuye defends ex-convict mayoral candidate ‘SkeemGP’

The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has defended its decision to announce a former convict as its mayoral candidate for the City of Ekurhuleni.

The party is facing fierce public backlash after announcing Themba “SkeemGP” Nzimande, a former cash-in-transit offender-turned podcaster, as part of its mayoral line-up for Gauteng.

Afrika Mayibuye’s national spokesperson, Sidney Baloyi, says, “As an organisation, in fielding Themba Nzimande, we heavily leaned on the philosophy of restorative justice, which is a very well-known approach in South Africa.

We also looked at the human capacity for transformation.” “Themba doesn’t assume this role, claiming to have a flawless past.

His past is exactly that; it is in the past- and he has owned up to it, he has boldly faced his past, dealt with the circumstances associated with his actions- and is now a changed character,” adds Baloyi.

Mayibuye Gauteng Mayoral Candidates thus far are: 1.

General Prince Nkitsing Mokotedi – City of Tshwane.

2.

City of Ekurhuleni – Themba “SKEEM-GP” Nzimande.

3.

Emfuleni Local Municipality – Bishop Vincent Jones.

4.

Sedibeng District Municipality — Apostle Buti Michael Nthako… — Floyd Shivambu (@FloydShivambu) September 5, 2026