The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has issued a strong warning to journalists not to ask him questions regarding the party’s head of political education Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, who was conspicuously absent from the party’s elective conference.
Malema, visibly irritated, made it clear to journalists on Saturday morning during the EFF’s third national people’s assembly in Nesrec, Soweto, that he would not entertain any questions about Ndlozi’s absence.
Ndlozi’s absence was noted when the conference commenced on Friday, leading to speculations and questions about his whereabouts. Malema firmly stated, “We are not going to answer the question about Mbuyiseni Ndlozi,” emphasizing that the focus should be on those present rather than those who are not.
In a previous report by the Mail & Guardian in November, it was mentioned that Ndlozi had been restricted from participating in party activities, including meetings, due to concerns about his loyalty to the organization. These concerns arose from his close association with former deputy president Floyd Shivambu, who defected to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.
Despite the controversies surrounding Ndlozi, Malema assured EFF supporters last month that Ndlozi had renewed his party membership and was committed to the party. He emphasized that Ndlozi was an integral part of the EFF and dismissed any rumors suggesting otherwise.
During a media briefing on Thursday, EFF secretary-general Marshall Dlamini reiterated that the party’s focus was on the collective rather than individual members. He emphasized the importance of the members present at the conference and downplayed the significance of individual absences.
Malema, on Saturday, expressed his frustration with journalists’ persistence on the matter of Ndlozi’s absence, questioning why the party should be preoccupied with one individual when the conference was about broader political issues. He firmly stated that the matter was closed and refused to entertain any further questions on the topic.
Speculations have arisen about Ndlozi potentially contesting for a position in the party despite not being physically present at the conference. When asked about this possibility, Malema clarified that no one had been barred from standing for a position and mentioned that individuals could still submit their candidacy through letters.
In conclusion, Malema reiterated that the party’s focus was on policy matters and the collective interest of the organization. He emphasized that the EFF was bigger than any individual and reaffirmed that the matter concerning Ndlozi’s absence was settled.
