Julius Malema sent “big dogs” to recruit Zuma. Look how Nxamalala responded

Efforts by Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), to bring former South African President Jacob Zuma into his political party have hit a roadblock. Malema, who previously expressed his desire for Zuma to join the EFF, reportedly sent prominent party members Mzwanele Manyi and Dali Mpofu to engage with the former president. However, Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile Zuma, revealed that her father declined the recruitment offer, stating that the EFF originated from the African National Congress (ANC).

Duduzile Zuma disclosed that Malema’s representatives approached her father with the intention of convincing him to join the EFF. However, Zuma firmly rejected the proposition, emphasizing his loyalty to the ANC. While Zuma posed for photographs with EFF members, acknowledging their presence, it is evident that his allegiance remains with the ANC.

Opinions on the matter vary, but many believe that Zuma’s deep-rooted connection to the ANC will prevent him from leaving the party. Zuma’s long history with the ANC dates back to his youth when he joined the party at the age of 17 in 1959. He endured ten years as a political prisoner on Robben Island and later went into exile in 1975. Eventually, Zuma was appointed as the head of the ANC’s intelligence department. Throughout his life, he has staunchly identified as a committed member of the ruling party. While there may be aspects of the ANC that he disagrees with, his loyalty to the movement makes it unlikely for him to betray it. Therefore, Malema’s aspirations to recruit Zuma may prove futile.

Despite the unsuccessful recruitment attempt, some acknowledge Malema’s effort and assert that it is worth attempting to bring influential figures into the party. However, they caution that consistency and reliability are crucial, particularly when dealing with more seasoned politicians. Zuma’s refusal to join the EFF aligns with his prioritization of loyalty and consistency, as mentioned by supporters.

Public Reactions:

Loozy (@Loozy): “President Zuma is a member of ANC in good standing. We, the people of SA, love and appreciate his commitment to our struggle. ANC will be dead if he were to leave us. To us, Msholozi is the Alpha and Omega of the RET policy of ANC. Thanks for reminding Malema and all that ANC is No1.”

MxolisNtima (@MxolisNtima): “Malema once said, ‘there’s no place for thieves in the EFF,’ especially those implicated in State Capture. He further said, ‘we will fetch Zuma from Nkandla and take him straight to prison.’ Does he (CIC) want to contaminate the EFF…I doubt!”

As the attempt to bring Jacob Zuma into the EFF faces resistance, it remains to be seen whether Malema and the party will pursue alternative strategies or focus on other political endeavors. The loyalty and longstanding connection Zuma holds with the ANC continue to shape the political landscape in South Africa.