Dali Mpofu Joins Zuma’s MK Party in Latest Defection from EFF Leadership
By Thabo Mosia
Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Chairperson, Advocate Dali Mpofu, has officially joined the Jacob Zuma-founded uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MK Party). Mpofu, who had been with the EFF since its founding in 2013 and served as its national chairperson from 2014, joins a wave of high-profile EFF defections to the MK Party, a relatively new political entity that has quickly gained momentum.
Mpofu’s exit adds to the recent exodus of senior EFF members, including former deputy president Floyd Shivambu, alongside Jimmy Manyi and Busisiwe Mkhwebane, all longstanding allies of former President Zuma. With these prominent figures aligning with the MK Party, which was only established about a year ago, this shift reflects broader internal fractures within the EFF and introduces new dynamics to South Africa’s opposition landscape.
Mpofu publicly shared that he and Zuma discussed the concept of the MK Party following the 2022 African National Congress (ANC) conference, leading to covert discussions over a span of 12 months before Mpofu formally departed from the EFF.
In an exclusive interview with SABC News, Mpofu revealed that his decision to join the MK Party followed deep reflection, expressing his belief that the MK Party offers “the only vehicle to achieve unity and true emancipation.” Mpofu further emphasized that his choice was not rooted in animosity towards the EFF but rather in a commitment to the shared vision of black unity and progress. “This decision,” he stated, “is about working for my people, for unity and change that truly addresses the needs of South Africans.”
This latest defection comes at a turbulent time for the EFF, which has been grappling with disappointing results in the May 29 elections. Once hailed as South Africa’s third-largest party, the EFF was relegated to fourth place, overtaken by the MK Party. This decline has amplified existing rifts, with EFF leader Julius Malema previously warning discontented members to either commit to the party or leave.
Malema Responds to Defections
In August 2024, EFF leader Julius Malema openly addressed the membership departures, particularly Shivambu’s, during a speech to Gauteng EFF supporters. Malema maintained a firm stance, encouraging those with doubts about their commitment to the party’s cause to make their exit rather than destabilize the organization. “Leave now; we don’t beg anyone to stay,” Malema stated. He later alluded to an “imminent exodus” of members to the MK Party but reassured remaining members that the EFF would endure.
This sentiment was underscored by Malema’s acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by the party’s loyal supporters, whom he described as the “first line of defense” for the organization. Reflecting on this, he emphasized the importance of unity within the party and denounced any elements that might use the upcoming elective conference as an opportunity to disrupt the party from within.
Tensions Ahead of the EFF’s Upcoming Elective Conference
Mpofu’s exit also comes just a month before the EFF is set to hold its third national conference, where new leadership will be elected. Initially, the conference was expected to host close contests for the influential positions of deputy and secretary-general. However, with the recent departures, these dynamics may shift as the party reassesses its trajectory and leadership structure.
This conference also serves as a platform for the EFF to address internal challenges and reinvigorate its vision amid increasing competition from the MK Party. The loss of key members adds to the challenges facing the EFF as it works to solidify its stance on national issues, especially with questions raised about its performance and future strategies.
The Growing Influence of the MK Party
The MK Party, under Zuma’s influence, has garnered significant interest, particularly among disillusioned former EFF members. Zuma’s appeal and his stance on “black unity” and “progressive change” have resonated with some of the EFF’s former base, particularly those who feel the EFF’s recent strategies have fallen short.
In its relatively brief existence, the MK Party has swiftly established itself as a formidable force in South African politics. Gaining traction not only with former EFF members but also with a wider audience, the MK Party’s rise has implications for the country’s political alignment, as it appeals to voters seeking an alternative that directly addresses economic and social inequality.
Additional Details on the Defectors
Shivambu, who left the EFF in August without renewing his membership, was one of the most significant departures before Mpofu’s. Known for his long-standing allegiance to the EFF, Shivambu’s defection was seen as an indicator of deep-seated disagreements within the party. His move, followed shortly by former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane and media personality Jimmy Manyi, underscored a pattern of EFF members re-evaluating their political affiliations.
While Mkhwebane’s and Manyi’s moves to the MK Party align them with Zuma’s agenda, these defections also reflect broader dissatisfaction with the EFF’s approach and internal cohesion. Mpofu, as a senior counsel who has represented the EFF in various legal capacities, adds a notable legal and intellectual component to the MK Party’s evolving political makeup.
Mpofu’s Recent Appearances and Statements
Mpofu recently appeared on the EFF podcast, where he shared his thoughts on the current political climate and South Africa’s coalition politics. He criticized the ANC’s alliances with other parties, describing it as a “sellout deal with the DA.” Mpofu argued that this alliance represents a “coalition of convenience” rather than one rooted in shared goals for South Africa’s development.
In his podcast interview, Mpofu contended that the ANC’s coalition with the DA is “a betrayal of the people’s trust.” He emphasized that the ANC’s decision to align with the DA and the Freedom Front Plus reflects its struggle to maintain relevance and is likely to alienate its traditional supporters.
Julius Malema’s Challenge to the Remaining EFF Members
As defections continue to raise questions about the EFF’s direction, Malema’s message to the remaining EFF members has been consistent. He has called for solidarity and condemned factionalism, urging the party to resist internal distractions ahead of the December conference. His speech at a Soweto gathering in August highlighted his determination to maintain the party’s vision without compromising its principles, regardless of the loss of prominent figures.
Malema’s approach has resonated with many within the EFF, but his challenge remains in convincing both the remaining leadership and grassroots supporters that the EFF remains a viable force for change. His warning against “opportunists” hoping to use the December conference for personal gain reflects ongoing concerns about the EFF’s ability to maintain internal unity.
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