Mk Party Member Dali Mpofu
Thabo Mosia
Dali Mpofu, former EFF national chairperson and current high command member of the MK Party, has reaffirmed the party’s commitment to peaceful politics despite recent accusations from EFF leader Julius Malema branding the MK Party as “enemy number one.”
Mpofu made these remarks at Vosloorus Stadium in Ekurhuleni during a media briefing ahead of the MK Party’s one-year anniversary rally scheduled for Saturday. His comments came in response to Malema’s claims that the MK Party contributed to the Economic Freedom Fighters’ decline in voter support during the May general election, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal. The province has become a stronghold for the MK Party, which emerged as the third-largest political force in the country.
A Rift Deepens: EFF and MK Party
The relationship between the EFF and MK Party has been strained since the departure of prominent EFF leaders, including Dali Mpofu, Floyd Shivambu, and several Members of Parliament, to the Jacob Zuma-led MK Party. The split has been seen by many as a direct challenge to the EFF’s dominance in South African politics, particularly among younger voters and in key regions like KwaZulu-Natal.
Malema, who has accused the MK Party of targeting the EFF to weaken its support base, recently called the MK Party “enemy number one.” In response, Mpofu firmly rejected this label, emphasising the MK Party’s commitment to non-confrontational politics.
Mpofu’s Response to Malema’s Criticism
“Our constitution enjoins members not to provoke or attack other progressive parties,” Mpofu said, addressing the media. “We refuse to fall into the trap of political rivalry that caused bloodshed in the past. While others may choose to engage in such provocations, we are committed to constructive, peaceful politics.”
Mpofu highlighted the importance of distinguishing between political opponents, rivals, and enemies. He stressed that the MK Party views all black South Africans as part of a shared struggle against systemic oppression and inequality.
“We will not call our fellow oppressed black people enemies. Thousands have died needlessly due to political rivalry, and we will not perpetuate that history,” Mpofu stated.
The Rise of the MK Party
The MK Party, formed by former President Jacob Zuma, has rapidly established itself as a significant force in South Africa’s political landscape. Following its performance in the May elections, the party has positioned itself as the third-largest political entity in the country. Its stronghold in KwaZulu-Natal and its ability to attract disenchanted voters have shaken the foundations of established political movements, including the EFF.
Mpofu described the MK Party as a “new giant” in South African politics, one that has forced every political party to reassess its strategies.
“Every political party in South Africa has been affected by the rise of this new giant. Our growth is a testament to the demand for a different approach to addressing the challenges facing South Africans,” he said.
Malema’s Counter-Attack: Nkandla and Legal Disputes
Malema, however, has not taken the MK Party’s rise lightly. He recently announced plans to pursue legal action against Zuma over unpaid legal fees. Speaking outside the Constitutional Court on Monday, Malema revealed that the EFF is considering attaching Zuma’s Nkandla homestead to recover the funds owed.
“We defeated Zuma a long time ago… In all the cases we won against Zuma, he never paid the legal fees. He owes us the legal fees. We have a court order that he must pay us our money,” Malema stated.
This move is widely seen as a response to the perceived threat posed by the MK Party. Malema’s remarks have also included sharp criticism of Zuma’s leadership and allegations of corruption, which he claims have undermined the integrity of South African politics.
A Call for Unity Amidst Division
Despite the escalating tensions, Mpofu has urged for unity among progressive forces. He reiterated the MK Party’s commitment to peaceful engagement and its focus on addressing the challenges facing South Africans, particularly the marginalised.
“The MK Party remains committed to its principles of peace, development, and upliftment for all South Africans. While others may choose conflict, we will continue to focus on building a better future for the country,” Mpofu said.
A Milestone Celebration: MK Party’s First Anniversary
As the MK Party prepares to celebrate its first anniversary on December 15 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, the event is expected to draw significant attention. Former President Zuma is scheduled to deliver the keynote address, highlighting the party’s achievements over the past year and outlining its vision for the future.
Mpofu described the anniversary rally as a moment to reflect on the party’s successes and its potential to shape South Africa’s political landscape.
“This celebration is not just about our achievements; it’s about reaffirming our commitment to the people of South Africa,” Mpofu said.
Broader Implications for South African Politics
The rivalry—or lack thereof—between the EFF and MK Party represents a significant shift in South Africa’s political dynamics. Analysts suggest that the MK Party’s rapid growth is forcing traditional parties like the EFF and the ANC to recalibrate their approaches. The upcoming local government elections will be a critical test for both the EFF and the MK Party as they compete for influence and voter support.
EFF’s Strategy and Elective Conference
In the face of these challenges, the EFF is preparing for its elective conference in December, where new leadership will be chosen. Malema has used the occasion to reinforce the EFF’s position as a party committed to accountability and anti-corruption.
“We have no relationship with MKP,” Malema said during a recent briefing in Soweto. He accused the MK Party of deliberately recruiting EFF leaders to destabilise the movement, a claim Mpofu has dismissed as baseless.
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