By Thabo Mosia
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema recently revealed that he firmly rejected calls to dissolve the EFF and merge it under the leadership of former President Jacob Zuma’s newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party). Reflecting on the departure of Advocate Dali Mpofu, a former EFF Chairperson, Malema shared insights on his interactions with Mpofu and Zuma, disclosing his steadfast commitment to maintaining the EFF’s independence.
Julius Malema’s Stance on EFF’s Independence
Malema articulated his unwavering resolve to keep the EFF an independent entity, despite several attempts by high-profile individuals, including Mpofu, to persuade him otherwise. He noted that while he respects Mpofu’s open communication about his ideas, he found the proposal to dissolve the EFF and merge with the MK Party under Zuma’s leadership unacceptable.
“I have always valued Dali Mpofu’s honesty and willingness to share his thoughts,” Malema stated. “However, the notion of merging the EFF with the MK Party, especially under the influence of Jacob Zuma, was something I could never support. The EFF was founded on principles that prioritize economic freedom and social justice, and our mission is unique and unwavering.”
Malema detailed past meetings in which Zuma suggested that opposition parties, including the EFF, align themselves under his leadership. During these discussions, Malema remained adamant that the EFF’s autonomy was non-negotiable, even as other party leaders showed interest in consolidating power under Zuma’s guidance.
Mpofu’s Departure to the MK Party: A Calculated Move
Malema expressed his respect for Mpofu’s decision to join the MK Party, clarifying that he was not surprised by the move. According to Malema, Mpofu’s departure aligns with his own longstanding intentions, which Malema had anticipated for some time. Mpofu, who served as the EFF’s national chairperson from 2014 until stepping down, played a crucial role in the party’s formation and early development. His exit, however, highlights a divergence in ideology and approach between the two political leaders.
In an exclusive interview with Newzroom Afrika, Mpofu shared that he was involved in the early stages of the MK Party’s formation. “There was a time when only Zuma and I knew about this project,” Mpofu revealed, adding that the discussions began over two years ago. His departure from the EFF, Mpofu explained, was influenced by his belief that the MK Party provides a more suitable platform to achieve his goals for “black and Progressive Unity.”
Malema’s Reflections on Zuma’s Influence and the MK Party
Malema recounted Zuma’s influence on opposition parties, sharing that Zuma had proposed a unification of opposition forces under his command. During meetings involving other political entities, including the African Transformation Movement (ATM) and the Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), Zuma promoted a vision for an opposition coalition. However, Malema rejected these suggestions, arguing that the EFF should remain independent.
“We faced pressure from various quarters to consolidate under the MK Party, but the EFF’s mission goes beyond aligning with any singular figure,” Malema asserted. “We stand for economic liberation in our lifetime, and that means preserving our identity and independence, even if that requires standing alone.”
Despite the political pressure, Malema stated that he remains steadfast in his stance against merging the EFF with the MK Party or altering the party’s fundamental structure to suit external agendas. He emphasized that the EFF was established to be a revolutionary force in South Africa’s political landscape, independent of traditional alliances or established figures like Zuma.
Dali Mpofu’s Journey to the MK Party
Mpofu’s alignment with Zuma’s MK Party is the culmination of years of covert discussions and planning, which he disclosed during a public announcement. His move to the MK Party follows a series of high-profile exits from the EFF, including former Deputy President Floyd Shivambu and prominent allies like Jimmy Manyi and former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane.
In an exclusive interview with SABC News, Mpofu explained that his decision to join the MK Party came after careful consideration. “I have been deliberating over this move for some time. After reflecting on the recent developments and the election results, it became clear that the MK Party offers a path towards unity and progressive transformation that resonates with me,” Mpofu said.
Mpofu also mentioned that he had been privy to confidential meetings with Zuma, discussing the MK Party’s potential and plans long before its official formation in December 2024. According to Mpofu, these discussions included considerations for unifying South Africa’s progressive forces under a single banner to counteract what he described as the “reintroduction of white minority rule.”
EFF’s Upcoming Conference and Potential Leadership Changes
Mpofu’s departure comes at a critical time for the EFF, as the party prepares for its third national conference to elect new leaders. Scheduled to take place next month, the conference is expected to be a decisive moment for the party, particularly given the recent exodus of prominent members. The conference will likely witness a competitive race for the deputy and secretary-general positions, with remaining leaders encouraged to close ranks and consolidate support for the party’s vision.
In recent months, Malema has addressed EFF supporters, urging them to remain resilient in the face of defections. Speaking to ground forces in Gauteng, Malema reaffirmed his commitment to the EFF’s mission, emphasizing that the party would not beg anyone to stay. “If you want to leave, do so now,” Malema declared. “Even if we are alone, we will continue to speak truth to power.”
Malema’s remarks underscore his determination to maintain the EFF’s core identity, despite external pressures and the recent wave of departures. As the EFF’s conference approaches, Malema has called on party members to stand united and guard against any attempts to undermine the organization from within.
Challenges and Opportunities in the EFF’s Path Forward
The EFF’s recent performance in the general elections, where it lost its position as the country’s third-largest party to the MK Party, has raised questions about the party’s future trajectory. Malema has acknowledged the challenges faced by the EFF, including the impact of recent resignations. However, he remains optimistic about the party’s ability to weather these setbacks and continue advancing its revolutionary agenda.
During a recent address, Malema warned against opportunistic behavior within the EFF, urging members to prioritize the party’s long-term mission over personal ambitions. “We must guard against opportunism, factionalism, and self-entitlement,” Malema stated. “Our focus is on our generational mission, not on individual aspirations.”
Malema’s comments reflect his belief that the EFF’s mission transcends individual leaders and alliances. He emphasized that the party’s commitment to economic freedom and social justice remains unchanged, regardless of recent defections or the emergence of rival political movements.
The EFF’s Legacy and Future in South Africa’s Political Landscape
As the EFF enters its next phase, Malema’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the party’s future. His resistance to merging with the MK Party demonstrates his commitment to preserving the EFF’s identity and independence. Malema’s vision for the EFF is one of a self-sustained movement, driven by principles rather than temporary political alliances.
The upcoming conference will provide an opportunity for the EFF to reflect on its achievements and recalibrate its strategy. For Malema, the party’s legacy is intertwined with its ability to remain a distinct voice for economic justice in South Africa. “Our people depend on us to represent their interests, and that responsibility is not something we take lightly,” Malema declared.
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