By Thabo Mosia
ANC Northern Cape Chairperson, Zamani Saul, has publicly criticized the leadership of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), particularly targeting its leader, Julius Malema. In a scathing post on social media platform X, Saul described the current state of the EFF as a “disintegrating circus,” led by an “unrestrained clown” whose ambitions to become South Africa’s Deputy President have turned the party into a volatile and ideologically inconsistent entity.
The Resignation of Floyd Shivambu: A Turning Point for the EFF
Floyd Shivambu’s sudden resignation from the EFF has sent shockwaves throughout South Africa’s political landscape. Shivambu, who co-founded the EFF with Malema, announced his departure to join former President Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party. His exit is being seen as a significant shift in South African opposition politics, as the MK Party, led by Zuma, continues to gain ground, even surpassing the EFF to become the third-largest political party in the country after the recent elections .
Shivambu’s departure reportedly stemmed from a severe fallout with Malema, who had become aware of Shivambu’s ambitions to challenge him for the party’s presidency in the upcoming elective congress. This move has not only intensified the leadership crisis within the EFF but also raised concerns about the party’s future stability .
Zamani Saul’s Scathing Criticism
Zamani Saul’s criticism of the EFF was sharp and direct. He accused Malema of turning the party into a circus, driven by personal ambitions rather than the original principles that once united its members. Saul warned that the worst is yet to come as Malema’s leadership continues to spiral out of control, leading to further instability within the EFF .
Saul’s remarks followed Julius Malema’s address to the Gauteng Ground Forces, where Malema discussed the recent resignation of Shivambu. The fallout from Shivambu’s exit has been profound, with Malema admitting the loss of a valuable member while also acknowledging that more defections to the MK Party could follow .
The Aftermath of Shivambu’s Departure
Julius Malema, visibly emotional during a media briefing, likened Shivambu’s resignation to the pain of losing a close family member. Despite the emotional toll, Malema remained resolute, stating that the EFF would continue its mission without begging anyone to stay. He urged those who might consider following Shivambu to leave immediately, emphasizing that the party’s loyalty must remain intact .
Shivambu, during his resignation, hinted at a broader discontent within the party, describing his move as a “revolutionary act” that would allow progressive forces to unite under a different banner. His departure has left the EFF at a crossroads, facing significant internal challenges as it prepares for its December leadership elections .
A Party in Crisis?
The resignation of Floyd Shivambu, one of the EFF’s most senior members, marks a critical juncture for the party. The internal strife between Malema and Shivambu underscores deeper issues within the party’s leadership. Political analysts have noted that this resignation could trigger a significant shift in the EFF’s trajectory, potentially weakening its influence as a major opposition force in South Africa. The EFF now faces the daunting task of reconsolidating its base amid growing internal divisions and external pressures from an emboldened MK Party .
Malema’s Response to Defectors
In his recent address at the Gauteng Provincial Ground Forces Forum, Malema took a strong stance against those he perceived as betraying the party for personal gain. He reiterated that the EFF’s Constitution should be the guiding principle for all members, calling on the party to build an “iron wall” in defense against both external enemies and internal detractors. Malema’s speech was a call to arms for loyal members to resist factionalism and remain steadfast in the EFF’s mission .
The Road Ahead for the EFF
As the EFF navigates this turbulent period, its ability to manage internal dissent and maintain a unified front will be crucial to its survival. The upcoming December elective congress will likely be a pivotal moment for the party, determining its future direction and leadership. Meanwhile, the MK Party, buoyed by recent defections, continues to grow as a formidable force in South African politics, further complicating the EFF’s position .
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