EFF leader Julius Malema confirms former party chairperson Dali Mpofu proposed dissolving the party and merging it with the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, led by former president Jacob Zuma. Malema made the statements during an internal podcast with EFF spokesperson Leigh-Ann Mathys on Thursday, hours after news broke that Mpofu had defected to the MK party.
Malema expressed surprise at Mpofu’s suggestion of a merger, which he said had faced strong opposition from then EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu. Shivambu himself later joined the MK party.
During the podcast, Malema mentioned that Floyd was extremely shocked by Mpofu’s proposal, as Mpofu had written it down and thought it through. Shivambu made it clear to Mpofu that the proposal would not be considered.
Mpofu, who was previously a member of the ANC before joining the EFF and now the MK party, released a nine-page statement dated 7 November, stating that he had earned the right to belong to all three organizations and aligning with his vision of uniting progressive forces.
Mpofu mentioned that he had participated in underground meetings with leaders from various political parties in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal over the past year, fostering alliances among left-wing parties. However, he did not comment on Malema’s assertion that he had proposed dissolving the EFF.
In his statement, Mpofu mentioned that his membership in the ANC had lapsed in 2013, and he had recently been informed that his membership in the EFF had also lapsed. He insisted that he was a member of all three organizations: the ANC, EFF, and MK.
Mpofu facilitated meetings between Zuma and leaders from various political groups, including the EFF, United Democratic Movement, the African Transformation Movement, with the aim of building a stronger alternative to the government of national unity.
Malema stated that while he had discussed potential collaborations with Zuma, he rejected Mpofu’s proposal to dissolve the EFF. Malema suggested that Zuma endorse the EFF if interested in a partnership, but Zuma declined, stating that older voters would be reluctant to support the Red Berets.
Malema reiterated that the EFF would not close shop and criticized members not fully committed to the party’s vision. Regarding Mpofu’s departure, Malema commented, “It is what it is,” stating that he had anticipated it.
The MK party contested its first general election on 29 May 2024, securing 15% of the national vote and positioning itself as South Africa’s third-largest party, a rank previously held by the EFF.
Mpofu’s departure from the EFF to MK follows other high-profile members this year, including Shivambu, Mzwanele Manyi, and Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Malema reassured the media that the EFF would not fall apart due to the mass exodus of senior leaders, emphasizing that the party was the future and could not be destabilized by opportunism.
Malema clarified that he had no personal relationship with Zuma beyond politics, emphasizing that they were political contenders. Former MK party national organizer McDonald Mathabe publicly disputed Mpofu’s claim of assisting Zuma in forming MK, calling Mpofu’s claim dishonest and stating that Zuma had deliberately excluded him due to his active membership in the EFF. Mathabe revealed that he had warned Zuma not to involve himself with the EFF, as he knew that Zuma was not keen on having him as a part of the alliance. Despite the advice given, Zuma chose to join forces with the EFF, a decision that Mathabe believes was not in Zuma’s best interest.
Mathabe’s insight sheds light on the dynamics at play within the political landscape, showcasing the complexities of forming alliances and the importance of making strategic decisions. His words highlight the tensions and conflicts that can arise when different political factions come together, each with their own agendas and motivations.
The cautionary tale shared by Mathabe serves as a valuable lesson for those navigating the realm of politics, emphasizing the need to carefully consider the implications of aligning with certain groups and individuals. It also underscores the importance of listening to wise counsel and weighing the potential risks and benefits before making crucial decisions.
In the ever-changing landscape of politics, alliances can be formed and broken in an instant, with the potential to shape the course of history. As leaders navigate the tumultuous waters of power and influence, it is imperative to heed the advice of those who have valuable insights and perspectives to offer.
Ultimately, Mathabe’s warning to Zuma serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that must be maintained in the world of politics, where alliances can be both fruitful and fraught with peril. By carefully considering the implications of their actions and decisions, leaders can navigate the complexities of political life with wisdom and foresight.
