The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in South Africa is in serious trouble after Floyd Shivambu, the party’s deputy leader, left to join a new political group led by former President Jacob Zuma called uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), or Spear of the Nation. This move is a huge shake-up for the EFF, which had relied on Shivambu’s intellectual leadership while Julius Malema, the party leader, brought the passionate rhetoric.
The EFF, which had been a major political force among South Africa’s young voters, faced a setback in the recent election, dropping from third to fourth place. MK, which also challenged the African National Congress (ANC), gained enough support to take third place in its first election. According to William Gumede, a professor at Wits University, MK’s rise took votes from both the ANC and the EFF, significantly impacting the political landscape and causing the ANC to lose its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994.
Shivambu’s departure is a big blow for Malema, especially since they had co-founded the EFF after being expelled from the ANC. The split leaves the EFF facing internal conflict and possible loss of support, as noted by journalist Paddy Harper. He suggests that the EFF might struggle to maintain its appeal and influence.
Political analyst Moeletsi Mbeki believes that this split could actually strengthen Malema’s position within the EFF, as he no longer has a rival within his own ranks. The EFF is seen by some as a personality-driven party, with Malema being the dominant force.
The public signs of trouble began last year when Malema warned Shivambu against plotting against him. Shivambu’s move to MK gives him a new role, but it’s unclear how well he will work with Zuma, who has had his own leadership challenges.
Additionally, both Shivambu and Malema have been linked to a corruption scandal involving bribes from a now-defunct bank, which has added to the turmoil. Shivambu’s departure to MK may offer him more protection, as MK is seen as a haven for those involved in similar controversies.
MK and the EFF share similar economic policies, but some experts argue that these ideas are outdated and impractical given the current state of South Africa’s economy. Both parties failed to join a unity government formed by President Cyril Ramaphosa, missing an opportunity to collaborate on solving the country’s problems like unemployment and poor infrastructure.
BBC’s coverage highlights that both MK and the EFF need to reconsider their strategies, as they currently face difficulties in delivering effective governance and satisfying voters’ needs.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c77l612r254o