In a surprising revelation, EFF leader Julius Malema has admitted feeling a sense of relief when his former deputy, Floyd Shivambu, left the party last month.
Speaking on the SABC's Face the Nation show, Malema described Shivambu's departure as a "heavy load" lifted, despite acknowledging the pain of losing a long-time comrade.
"I don't know why, but it is not always that bad things will always produce bad results. Perhaps at times they do produce very good results," Malema said, hinting at a positive outcome from Shivambu's departure. He added that the EFF is "doing very well" without Shivambu, reiterating that the party's leadership remains intact and "we are rocking."
Shivambu, a founding member of the EFF who served as its deputy president for eleven years, resigned to join Jacob Zuma's MK Party as its national organiser. This move was seen as a significant blow to the EFF, given Shivambu's prominent role within the party.
However, Malema insists that the EFF is thriving without Shivambu, stating that the party's success is not reliant on any individual.
"We are fine. We are rocking," he said, emphasizing the EFF's resilience and ability to function without its former deputy.
Malema also addressed the issue of Shivambu's potential return to the EFF, stating that he had offered Shivambu the opportunity to come back despite it being against the party's constitution.
"I said that to show that I have nothing against the guy. Even if he calls me tomorrow, I will show up. But we are all governed by the constitution of the party," Malema explained.
He further clarified that the EFF's leadership has made it clear that Shivambu will not be welcomed back, as his return would violate the party's constitution.
Despite the EFF's stance on Shivambu's return, Malema acknowledged the existence of individuals who may follow Shivambu to the MK Party. He expressed his awareness of their actions, stating that "they speak very bad of the organisation and plotting against the leadership."
Malema believes that these individuals are motivated by a desire to secure positions within the EFF's upcoming elective conference.
"What is holding them is the upcoming elective conference. They want to blackmail us into electing them, and if we don't they are going to leave. But they are long gone. This is just a season that will pass. You must not be overwhelmed by a season. It is like those people who spend all their money on Christmas day," he said while dismissing their actions as a passing phase.
Malema's comments have sparked debate within the South African political landscape, with some questioning his motives for admitting relief at Shivambu's departure. Others have interpreted his remarks as a sign of the EFF's strength and resilience, highlighting the party's ability to function effectively even without its former deputy.
The EFF's future remains uncertain, but Malema's confident assertions about the party's success without Shivambu suggest a strong belief in the EFF's ability to navigate this challenging period. The upcoming elective conference will be a crucial test for the party, as it seeks to solidify its leadership and direction in the face of internal divisions and external pressures.
