Image: EFF Leader Julius Malema
By Thabo Mosia
In a revealing and candid interview aired on SABC News’s “Face the Nation,” Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema opened up about a range of pressing issues within the party, the departure of Floyd Shivambu, and the EFF’s future trajectory. The conversation, moderated by journalist Clement Manyathela, comes at a crucial time for the EFF, as the party faces internal and external challenges while preparing for its upcoming elective conference in December 2024.
The Departure of Floyd Shivambu: Malema’s Reflection
One of the most significant changes within the EFF in 2024 has been the departure of Floyd Shivambu, the party’s former deputy president. Shivambu, a founding member and key figure in the EFF’s leadership, shocked many by defecting to Jacob Zuma’s MK Party. Manyathela probed Malema on how he had personally coped with the loss of Shivambu, not just as a comrade but as someone whom Malema once considered a “brother.”
Malema’s response was both reflective and assertive. While admitting that Shivambu’s departure was painful, he expressed a surprising sense of relief, as if a “heavy load” had been lifted. This emotional detachment signaled that Malema and the EFF were ready to move forward without looking back. Malema clarified that what had united him and Shivambu was their shared commitment to the “agenda of revolution.” Once that common ground disappeared, Malema felt no need to maintain any relationship with Shivambu.
“It’s as if I put down some heavy load,” Malema stated, emphasizing that his personal feelings towards Shivambu had no bearing on the party’s direction. “We are rocking without him,” Malema confidently added, hinting at a stronger and more united EFF in the wake of Shivambu’s exit.
Allegations of Betrayal and Changing Dynamics
The conversation quickly turned to the public narrative surrounding Shivambu’s departure. At the initial press briefing where Shivambu announced his resignation, Malema maintained a professional demeanor, causing many to interpret his response as sadness. However, just days later, during a rally with the EFF’s “ground forces,” Malema described feeling betrayed, a noticeable shift in tone.
Manyathela asked Malema about this apparent change in messaging. In response, Malema explained that his posture was consistent. While he took a calm approach during the press briefing, he adopted a more “agitated” tone when addressing the party’s grassroots supporters to instill confidence and solidarity among them. He insisted that his message remained the same in both instances: Shivambu’s actions were akin to betrayal, but the party would not falter.
Floyd Shivambu’s Potential Return to the EFF?
In a surprising twist, during the press briefing, Malema had also suggested that, despite Shivambu’s departure, there could be room for him to return to the EFF. This comment raised eyebrows given the EFF’s constitution, which bars former members from rejoining the party. Manyathela questioned whether Malema was truly prepared to make an exception for Shivambu, given the party’s strict rules.
Malema clarified that his suggestion was merely a reflection of his personal stance towards Shivambu, stating that he harbored no ill feelings towards his former deputy. However, Malema acknowledged that such a decision would ultimately rest with the EFF’s leadership, not him. He revealed that during a Central Command Team (CCT) meeting, his fellow leaders firmly rejected the idea of making any constitutional exceptions for Shivambu’s return. Malema respected this decision, stating that the “EFF’s constitution applies to everyone.”
The EFF’s Leadership and Unity
As the EFF approaches its December elective conference, questions about the party’s leadership succession and internal unity have come to the forefront. Malema assured viewers that the EFF remains strong and that its leadership is intact despite the high-profile exit of Shivambu. He dismissed concerns about potential divisions within the party, especially as the conference draws closer, and stressed the importance of maintaining unity.
Malema also highlighted that the EFF operates as a democratic collective. Despite being the party’s president, Malema emphasized that significant decisions, such as Shivambu’s possible return or changes to the constitution, are made collectively by the leadership. He took pride in the EFF’s commitment to internal democracy and transparency, contrasting it with other political parties where leadership is often more centralized.
Controversy Over Ownership of Media Channels
During the interview, Manyathela raised a particularly contentious issue: Malema’s comments about media ownership, specifically his previous remarks about Channel 405 and its alleged connections to individuals who have left the EFF. Some interpreted Malema’s statements as a personal attack on Shivambu’s past associations with media owners.
Malema, however, refuted these claims, stating that his remarks had been misunderstood. He clarified that his concerns were not about personal relationships but about the potential bias and agendas driven by certain media outlets. “I didn’t say that. I don’t know who owns Channel 405,” Malema asserted, pointing out that the media’s portrayal of the EFF is often shaped by external influences and ownership structures.
EFF’s Plans for the December Elective Conference
Looking ahead to the EFF’s elective conference in December, Malema expressed confidence that the party would emerge united and stronger than ever. He dismissed concerns about internal factions or infighting, insisting that the party’s democratic processes would ensure that only the most committed and capable leaders would be elected.
Malema also touched on the upcoming policy discussions and strategic decisions that will shape the EFF’s future. The party has ambitious plans to solidify its position as a key player in South African politics, with a focus on addressing issues like land reform, economic justice, and industrialization. While the EFF’s electoral performance in 2024 may have been a setback, Malema firmly believes that the party can regain its lost ground by staying true to its founding principles.
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