MIDDELBURG – The Secretary General of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Marshall Dlamini, has refuted allegations that a fallout between party leaders led to the unprecedented resignation of Julius Malema’s deputy and close ally, Floyd Shivambu.
Shivambu publicly declared his resignation from the EFF, the party he played a pivotal role in founding in 2013, to join the newly established uMkhonto WeSizwe (MK) party on Thursday, August 15, 2024. His decision followed a letter sent to Malema the previous night, in which he communicated his choice not to renew his membership. Additionally, he tendered his resignation as an EFF Member of Parliament.
The abrupt nature of Shivambu’s departure has ignited speculation that he and Malema experienced a disagreement before the national and provincial elections in May this year. However, Dlamini dismissed these rumours, stating that Shivambu’s exit was a personal choice unrelated to the EFF.
“His aspiration was to engage in politics through a distinct approach,” Dlamini said when addressing party members and volunteers in Hlalamnandi, Middelburg, over the weekend. “There exists no turmoil within the party, and we are persisting with our activities on the ground.”
Dlamini added that the Commander in Chief (CIC) has acknowledged the resignation and moved forward. “He remains resolute, composed, and operating efficiently. The day following the announcement [resignation], he was already focusing on his duties at the office,” he said. He further noted that Malema does not need prayers to handle Shivambu’s departure. “He is in a state of equilibrium without the need for prayers,” he said.
Dlamini also stated that the party wants to demonstrate resilience as an organisation that upholds principles above individual interests.
During a press conference, Shivambu explained that leaving the party was not a vote of no-confidence in the EFF. “It is a revolutionary act that will allow progressive forces to unite and work behind the agenda for progressive and revolutionary change,” he said. “I have never, in my service to the organisation, acted outside its democratic and revolutionary decisions, discipline, and practice.”
Shivambu has been appointed as the MK party’s national organiser. This was confirmed by Sfiso Maseko, MK party Secretary General, during a media briefing on Thursday, August 22, 2024.
