Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has made headlines once again, this time for his comments on former president Jacob Zuma. Despite labeling Zuma as corrupt, Malema revealed that he has a good relationship with the ex-president.
During a media briefing ahead of the EFF’s third National People’s Assembly, Malema stated, “Me and President Zuma, we are very good. The same way me and President Ramaphosa are very good. But it doesn’t stop me from saying he is corrupt, because he is corrupt.”
The upcoming conference, scheduled for 12 to 15 December at Nasrec, Johannesburg, will see new party leadership elected, with Malema likely to stand as president once again. Despite their history of public spats, Zuma and Malema appeared to have found common ground before the May general elections.
Malema, who formed the EFF after being expelled from the ANC under Zuma’s leadership, has been vocal in his criticism of the former president. He famously took the fight to Zuma in parliament over corruption allegations, particularly concerning the Nkandla scandal.
However, their relationship hit a rough patch following the departure of prominent EFF leaders to Zuma’s newly formed MK party. This included figures like Floyd Shivambu and Dali Mpofu, causing tensions between the two camps.
Malema emphasized that he is not a “pushover” and will not allow anyone to push him around, regardless of their relationship. He made it clear that he will not be swayed by personal connections and will continue to speak out against corruption.
Despite the EFF and MK forming a progressive caucus in parliament, Malema clarified that there is no formal relationship between the two parties. The recent recruitment of EFF leaders by MK has further strained their interactions.
Malema also touched on the EFF’s upcoming march to the constitutional court concerning an impeachment inquiry against President Ramaphosa. The party has been pushing for accountability regarding the Phala Phala game farm scandal, which parliament previously rejected.
In response to rumors about Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s participation in the upcoming conference, Malema dismissed these claims, stating that he has not made any decisions regarding Ndlozi’s involvement. He urged against spreading gossip and emphasized focusing on important discussions.
Overall, Malema’s comments shed light on the complex dynamics within South African politics and the EFF’s ongoing efforts to hold leaders accountable for corruption and misconduct. The upcoming conference and march to the constitutional court signal the party’s commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.
