Get ready for a thrilling tale of political intrigue and potential alliances in South Africa. Julius Malema, the controversial leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has revealed that his party is secretly talking to Ace Magashule, the expelled former secretary-general of the African National Congress (ANC). Could Magashule, who was kicked out of the ANC, join the EFF?
Malema said the discussions with Magashule are at an advanced stage, and they are important because politics is all about numbers. He also mentioned that the EFF is in similar talks with other influential ANC leaders, although their names remain a secret. An announcement will be made once the negotiations are finished.
Magashule’s expulsion from the ANC came after he failed to respond to charges brought by the party’s National Disciplinary Committee. He was found guilty of bringing the ANC into disrepute for not apologizing for trying to suspend President Cyril Ramaphosa. Magashule was also suspended from the ANC due to his involvement in a corruption case related to asbestos tenders in the Free State. His trial for corruption is scheduled for April 2024.
The corruption case goes back to 2014 when Magashule, as the Free State Premier, awarded a contract worth R255 million to Diamond Hill and Blackhead Consulting. The contract was meant to remove asbestos from houses in the Free State. In May, the Supreme Court of Appeal dismissed Magashule’s attempts to challenge the validity of his prosecution in the corruption case.
There you have it—a captivating story of political maneuvers, suspenseful negotiations, and the potential reshaping of South African politics. Will Magashule find a new political home in the EFF? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world of South African politics has never been more fascinating. Now, let’s ensure the text is error-free and ready for you to read.