The Afrika Mayibuye Movement has officially named Themba Lukhele, popularly known as Skeem GP, as its candidate for mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni in anticipation of the local government elections scheduled for 4 November 2026.
This announcement took place on Saturday, 5 September, during the party’s first anniversary celebrations and the unveiling of its Gauteng mayoral candidates.
According to party president Floyd Shivambu, the candidates were chosen following discussions with party members, supporters, and local communities.
Prince Mokotedi has been designated as the party’s candidate for mayor in Tshwane, while Shivambu did not reveal the candidate for Johannesburg at this time.
Lukhele, who grew up in Katlehong on the East Rand, is a former inmate turned podcaster, author, television personality, and founder of the Skeem GP Foundation.
The Skeem GP Foundation is dedicated to community development, youth empowerment, and the rehabilitation and reintegration of former offenders. Lukhele has also shared his personal experiences in prison and his commitment to helping young people steer clear of crime.
Lukhele’s entry into politics gained traction in 2025 when he expressed that he had always been politically inclined and decided to join Floyd Shivambu’s political initiative after previously remaining on the sidelines.
The Afrika Mayibuye Movement aims to contest all 4,468 wards across South Africa, including all local, district, and metropolitan municipalities. The party plans to unveil its election manifesto in Tembisa on 19 September.
Ekurhuleni is anticipated to be one of the most hotly contested metros in the upcoming elections. The DA has already announced Khathutshelo Rasilingwane as its mayoral candidate, while the EFF has chosen Nthabiseng Tshivhenga and ActionSA has selected Xolani Khumalo. The MK Party has named Thulani Shongwe as its candidate.
As the election campaign gains pace, Shivambu took the opportunity during Saturday’s event to critique rival political parties and to outline the ambitions of Mayibuye ahead of the elections.
