Prominent Departures Shake South Africa’s Radical Opposition Party

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a radical opposition party in South Africa, seems to be experiencing a decline following the departure of another prominent member to the party of former President Jacob Zuma. Dali Mpofu, an advocate and previous chairperson of the EFF, informed local media that, following extensive “soul-searching,” he opted to become a member of uMhkonto weSizwe (MK), also known as Spear of the Nation. He stated, “I believe it [MK] is the vehicle which will achieve the much needed black and progressive unity.” The EFF, under the leadership of the outspoken Julius Malema, previously enjoyed significant backing among South Africa’s growing youth demographic, who were dissatisfied with the sluggish progress of political and economic reforms since the conclusion of the apartheid system in 1994. However, the EFF encountered a considerable reversal in the May general election; rather than reaching its objective of moving from the nation’s third-largest party to second, it fell to fourth place. The party’s support diminished in favor of MK, which was contesting its inaugural election since its establishment last year. Zuma led the party’s electoral efforts, marking a notable return after his imprisonment in 2021 for contempt of court due to his unwillingness to cooperate with a judicial inquiry into corruption that occurred during his tenure as president. Both parties advocate for comparable economic policies, such as the seizure of land owned by white individuals and the nationalization of mining operations and financial institutions. Sandile Swana, a South African political analyst, informed the BBC that Mpofu’s decision was motivated by “political ambition.” He remarked, “As it stands today, MK is substantially bigger than the EFF. If someone wants power, they have a quicker route with MK.” Mpofu’s departure comes after similar moves by Malema’s deputy, Floyd Shivambu, and two legislators, Mzwanele Manyi and Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Mr. Swana suggested that the EFF might gain from this “pruning process.” He commented, “The unnecessary branches are being cut off.” On an EFF podcast, Malema addressed Mpofu’s defection, stating it was not surprising. He further stated, “We respect his decision.” However, Shivambu, who was formerly the EFF leader’s chief aide, exacerbated Malema’s discomfort by posting a message on Instagram to greet Mpofu’s entry into MK. In his post, he wrote, “Welcome Dali Mpofu to the movement which has superior ideological, political and organisational capacity, composure.” Mpofu previously held a position within the EFF’s senior leadership, serving as chairperson from 2014 to 2019. Subsequently, he concentrated on his legal profession, representing the party and, more recently, Zuma, in legal disputes against the government. Both the EFF and MK originated from the African National Congress (ANC), the party that has governed since the conclusion of apartheid in 1994. Prior to joining the EFF, Mpofu had been a member of the ANC for 33 years. While announcing his defection on the public broadcaster, SABC, Mpofu stated he had not notified Malema in advance, but affirmed there was no “bad blood” between them. He additionally asserted that he and Zuma initially discussed the concept of establishing a new party two years prior. Mpofu alleged that he assisted in selecting MK’s name and participated in discussions regarding its organizational framework while still a member of the EFF, though he denied acting as a “double agent.” Mr. Swana commented that Zuma and Mpofu were “intertwined.” He further stated that Mpofu perceived a “better prospect with Zuma rather than running around with a spring chicken like Malema.” Zuma, aged 82, held the presidency of South Africa for nine years until the ANC compelled his resignation in 2018, partly due to corruption allegations. Malema, 43 years old, previously served as an ANC youth leader. In 2012, the party, then under Zuma’s leadership, expelled him following accusations of divisiveness. After establishing the EFF a year subsequent to his expulsion, he has remained at the party’s head. He is anticipated to be re-elected without opposition at a party conference scheduled for next month, notwithstanding concerns regarding his leadership. South African political analyst Ongama Mtimka informed the BBC, “There is a rejection of the dictatorial style of Julius Malema in terms of leadership succession.” He further stated that EFF members held the belief that Malema and his inner circle had already pre-selected individuals for high-ranking roles. He explained, “If leaders get wind that their fellow leaders want to run for the top position – it’s seen as a betrayal.” On X, Malema hinted at additional defections, posting cryptically that “they sing beautifully and are always willing to pose for pictures and sign roll calls, but remember, their souls are long gone.” He urged party members to unite behind him, adding, “To prevent any potential hurt, it’s crucial to heed the guidance of the leadership.” He concluded, “We remain standing and are not going anywhere under a criminal syndicate.” Additional news from the African continent is available at BBCAfrica.com. 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