Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
16 August 2024 | 18:22 CAT

Shivambu swaps allegiance to Zuma’s MK party

Floyd Shivambu has resigned as EFF’s deputy president, saying he would be joining former president Jacob Zuma’s MK Party.

His departure from the EFF, a party he has been a part of since its inception, is expected to have significant implications for the party’s future direction.

Shivambu announced this during a media briefing in Johannesburg on Thursday.

“My non-renewal of the EFF’s membership is not a vote of no confidence in the organisation but a revolutionary act that would allow progressive forces to unite and work towards the agenda,” he said.

Malema said the party had lost a valuable member.

Malema, the leader of EFF, expressed the party’s loss, acknowledging that Shivambu’s departure will undoubtedly leave a void. He also revealed that EFF MP Manyi had also resigned on Monday, further adding to the party’s challenges.

While acknowledging the loss, Malema also warned that Shivambu’s departure might not be the last. He cautioned that there could be more departures from the EFF, as some members might choose to follow Shivambu’s lead.

Radio Islam International discussed the news with Political Analyst Khanyi Magubani, who expressed shock.

“The EFF has been one of the most successful formations post the ANC,” explains Magubani.

The departure from EFF comes just months after the EFF was dislodged as the third-largest party in the country. The MK party overtook the EFF and is also the official opposition in the National Assembly because the DA decided to join the government of national unity.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and Political Analyst Khanyi Magubani here.