Shangaan disco sensation Joe Shirimani has filled the shoes of his fellow musician Benny Mayengani.
Shirimani has officially been appointed president of the Action Alliance Development Party (AADP).
Shirimani of the “ Ya Moloma Notshi” fame is taking over from Mayengani, who recently resigned from politics to focus fully on his music career.
The party confirmed Shirimani’s appointment in a statement issued on Friday May 22 2026, describing the leadership transition as a move aimed at ensuring continuity and stability within the organisation ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
AADP said Mayengani had decided to step down from all political responsibilities in order to dedicate his time and energy to his flourishing music career and cultural work.
“Mayengani, a celebrated musician and cultural figure, expressed his gratitude to the party and its supporters, emphasizing his desire to focus on his artistry and continue contributing to South Africa’s vibrant music industry,” the party said.
The party added that Shirimani, who has also enjoyed a long and influential career in the music industry, would now devote his attention to growing the political organisation and advancing its vision and mission.
“In his stead, Joe Shirimani will assume leadership of AADP. Shirimani, who has stepped away from the music industry, is now positioned to devote his full energy and commitment to the party’s political vision and organisational growth,” the statement read.
Shirimani’s appointment marks yet another intersection between politics and entertainment in South Africa, particularly within the Tsonga music scene, where both he and Mayengani have built loyal fan bases over the years.
Mayengani announced his resignation earlier this week after what he described as lengthy consultations with his management team and business advisors. In a statement at the time, the musician said he had gracefully capitulated to advice encouraging him to relinquish all political positions and activities in favour of focusing on music and cultural representation.
“It’s a fact that my primary focus will now be music and being a force in representing my culture and tradition,” Mayengani said in his resignation statement.
The musician also suggested that balancing politics and entertainment had become increasingly difficult, saying there comes a time when one must accept guidance that allows for growth beyond previous achievements.
His departure from the political scene came as a surprise to some supporters, particularly after he had become one of the recognisable faces associated with AADP, which he founded after leaving the ANC and the EFF.
The party, however, expressed confidence that Shirimani’s leadership would usher in a new era for the organisation while strengthening its commitment to community empowerment, cultural preservation and social development.
