Julius Malema addresses betrayals in the EFF
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) President Julius Malema tackled the theme of betrayal during a keynote address at St Paul African Apostolic Church in Soweto on Sunday. His remarks came amid ongoing tensions and political shifts within the party.
Malema’s Reflections on Betrayal
Speaking to the congregation in Moletsane, Malema drew a parallel between his personal experiences and biblical stories of betrayal.
“I lost my brothers now. They turned against me, and I never looked back,” Malema stated. “I’ve never, not even once, doubted myself when my brothers turned against me.”
He continued: “It is not for the first time that brothers turn against each other. It is there in the Bible. It doesn’t start with them, so why should I be a crybaby when they turn against me?”
Social Media Spat: Malema and Mpofu
Malema’s remarks came after a social media post by Dali Mpofu, former EFF chairperson, sparked controversy. Mpofu shared a photo of himself with former EFF Deputy President Floyd Shivambu, now secretary general of the MK Party, and former EFF spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, who recently resigned and took up a role as a Power FM radio host.
Mpofu’s tweet read:
“What a week… Now I know why they say a week is a long time in politics!! In the middle of everything else, the MK SG & I found time to break bread with ‘the one who sings beautifully’. Maybe we should co-author the long-awaited bestseller book entitled The Three Betrayers,” followed by laughing emojis.
Ndlozi Rejects Characterization
Ndlozi, who had officially resigned from the EFF on February 10, immediately distanced himself from Mpofu’s portrayal.
“So petty! I totally reject this tweet, both its letter and spirit,” Ndlozi responded.
His departure ended months of speculation after his suspension from the party. Ndlozi clarified that his decision to leave was the result of “months of introspection” and a desire to move away from active politics.
Ndlozi also denied any plans to join the MK Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma. “I can state categorically now that I never planned to join the MKP [and] I still don’t,” he said. “I never worked with anybody in the MKP in relation to some conspiracy about my departure. I think that whatever information they say they have was based largely on lies.”
Growing Exodus from the EFF
Ndlozi’s resignation adds to a growing list of high-profile departures from the EFF. Former EFF members Floyd Shivambu, Dali Mpofu, Mzwanele Manyi, and Busisiwe Mkhwebane have all joined the MK Party in recent months. Rumors are circulating that more defections from the EFF may be imminent.
This wave of resignations highlights fractures within the EFF’s leadership, raising questions about internal party dynamics and Malema’s leadership style.
Malema’s Cryptic Response
Although Malema did not directly reference Mpofu’s tweet or the accompanying photo, he posted a dismissive message on social media, saying: “They are all boys combined.”
This remark, though cryptic, appears to be a pointed response to the ongoing exchanges and may signal Malema’s disinterest in further public feuds with former allies.
Ongoing Tensions
The strained relationships between current EFF leaders and former members are indicative of broader political realignments within South Africa’s opposition landscape. As former EFF figures carve out new political paths or transition into media roles, the party is grappling with internal challenges that could shape its future trajectory.
Looking Ahead
Malema’s remarks in Soweto suggest that he remains steadfast in his leadership despite the departures and social media controversies. Whether the EFF will be able to withstand the impact of these leadership exits and the brewing tensions remains to be seen. For now, the political stage is set for further developments as South Africa’s opposition parties continue to evolve.
