By Phenyo Selinda
Former South African President Jacob Zuma, who serves as Commander General of the newly established uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, officially welcomed Advocate Dali Mpofu to the organisation. This announcement, made public on Thursday.
Mpofu, formerly a national chairperson and a high-ranking member of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has chosen to join Zuma’s MK Party, citing a strong alignment with its revolutionary agenda. Over the years, Mpofu has built a reputation as a “reliable, committed, humble, respectful, and fearless fighter” for justice. Zuma’s endorsement described Mpofu as a perfect fit for the MK Party, which aims to foster “unity and real emancipation” in South Africa.
Advocate Mpofu’s Shift from EFF to MK Party: A Calculated Move for Unity
Advocate Mpofu’s shift from the EFF, where he held a prominent position, to the MK Party reflects a notable shift within South Africa’s political landscape. Mpofu played an instrumental role within the EFF since its inception in 2013, serving as chairperson for five years. In his new role with the MK Party, he is expected to be a central figure in advancing the party’s mission of uniting South Africa’s progressive forces.
Mpofu has been vocal about his long-standing relationship with Jacob Zuma, revealing in recent interviews that he was involved in discussions with the former president as early as 2022 about the formation of the MK Party. “There was a time when former President Zuma and I were the only people who knew about this project of the formation of MK,” Mpofu stated. He described this collaboration as a strategic effort to address South Africa’s political fragmentation and the need for a unified progressive agenda.
Zuma and Mpofu’s Shared Vision for South Africa
Zuma and Mpofu’s partnership is rooted in their shared vision for an emancipated and united South Africa, free from the lingering effects of apartheid-era policies. In his statement, Zuma emphasised that Mpofu’s background as a “fearless anti-apartheid, anti-establishment activist and politician” aligns well with the MK Party’s mission. Zuma commended Mpofu’s lifelong dedication to social justice, saying, “He has associated with the struggle of our people for almost 50 years, and we are pleased and confident that he will continue to play a meaningful role.”
The MK Party, under Zuma’s leadership, has emerged as a new platform for South Africans disillusioned by mainstream political offerings. Mpofu’s alignment with this movement signals a growing trend among former EFF members who have shifted allegiances to the MK Party. Mpofu follows in the footsteps of former EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu and former public protector Advocate Busisiwe Mkhwebane, both of whom have recently joined the MK Party.
EFF Leader Julius Malema Reacts to Mpofu’s Departure
EFF leader Julius Malema, who has often been vocal about his disapproval of certain alliances, offered a mixed reaction to Mpofu’s departure. In a public statement, Malema remarked, “Only two more of your favourites remain, and the list will be finalised.” Malema acknowledged Mpofu’s decision while reiterating his commitment to the EFF’s principles and independence.
Malema has previously rejected the notion of uniting opposition forces under Zuma’s leadership, a proposal Mpofu had suggested in earlier meetings. According to Malema, Mpofu advocated for consolidating the EFF and other opposition parties under the MK Party, an idea Malema firmly opposed. “We remain standing and are not going anywhere under a criminal syndicate,” Malema commented, highlighting his stance on the EFF’s independence from Zuma’s influence.
Mpofu’s Reflections on His Departure from the EFF
In recent interviews, Mpofu provided insights into his reasons for leaving the EFF. He shared that his decision was based on a careful assessment of where he believed he could make the most impact. Mpofu stated, “After a lot of soul-searching, I’ve decided that I will be joining MK because I believe that it is the vehicle through which we will achieve the much-needed black and progressive unity.”
Mpofu explained that he had considered remaining within the EFF but ultimately felt that the MK Party offered a more effective platform for his vision of unity among South Africa’s progressive forces. He reiterated his commitment to the broader movement for social justice, saying, “I don’t believe it’s about the colour of the T-shirt you’re wearing; it’s about the cause itself, the broader movement.”
The Political Repercussions of Mpofu’s Departure
Mpofu’s departure from the EFF comes at a challenging time for the party. In recent months, the EFF has faced an exodus of high-profile members to the MK Party, including Shivambu and Mkhwebane. This shift has sparked concerns about the stability of the EFF as it approaches its third elective conference in December 2024. The conference was initially anticipated to feature a competitive race for key leadership positions, but recent defections may alter the dynamics.
The EFF’s recent performance in the general elections has added to these challenges, as the party lost its position as South Africa’s third-largest party to the MK Party. During a recent address in Soweto, Malema reaffirmed his commitment to the EFF’s mission, stating, “We will still speak truth to power, even if we are alone.”
ANC and MK Party: A Growing Alliance?
In addition to Mpofu’s transition, the MK Party has garnered support from former African National Congress (ANC) members who have grown disillusioned with the ruling party’s direction. Recently, the ANC has faced internal strife, with several members questioning its coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Government of National Unity (GNU). This coalition has been controversial, with many ANC members seeing it as a betrayal of the party’s revolutionary principles.
For the MK Party, these shifts represent an opportunity to position itself as a new home for those dissatisfied with both the ANC and the EFF. The MK Party’s mission of uniting left-leaning forces has resonated with various political factions, potentially making it a formidable presence in the next election cycle.
Future of the MK Party Under Zuma and Mpofu’s Leadership
As Mpofu and Zuma solidify their partnership, the MK Party is likely to focus on key issues such as economic justice, anti-corruption, and land reform. The party’s messaging has emphasised a return to the revolutionary principles that originally defined South Africa’s liberation movements. Mpofu’s role within the MK Party is expected to be central to its legal and political strategies, given his experience as a senior counsel and his long-standing advocacy for social justice.
Mpofu has already hinted at plans to release documents outlining his discussions with Zuma regarding the MK Party’s formation. This transparency may serve to further legitimise the party’s mission and attract additional supporters.
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