The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), one of South Africa’s most prominent political parties, is grappling with internal discord centered around Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. Speculation over Ndlozi’s potential exclusion from the upcoming National People’s Assembly (NPA), set for December, has raised tensions within the party, compounded by his continued silence on the matter.
EFF Member of Parliament Sinawo Thambo has been vocal in his criticism of Ndlozi, taking to social media to express disappointment over the lack of response from the former spokesperson amid growing scrutiny of the party’s leadership. “I love him too, but I love the EFF more,” Thambo stated, underscoring his loyalty to the organization above personal allegiances. He urged Ndlozi to break his silence, suggesting that inaction could be interpreted as complicity in the controversies affecting the party.
Adding to the turmoil, EFF leader Julius Malema criticized Ndlozi’s partner, filmmaker Mmabatho Montsho, after she publicly supported Floyd Shivambu’s departure from the party. Shivambu, a senior figure in the EFF, recently announced his defection to join former President Jacob Zuma’s MK Party, further destabilizing the EFF’s leadership ranks.
The internal conflict has sparked broader concerns about the party’s unity and long-term stability. Political analyst Levy Ndou cautioned that unresolved tensions could lead to fragmentation, threatening the EFF’s cohesion. However, Thambo dismissed such warnings, characterizing the criticisms as “tabloid gossip” and reaffirming that the EFF remains committed to collective principles over individual ambitions.
Despite the controversy, Ndlozi continues to enjoy strong support among the EFF’s younger, more radical members, many of whom back his candidacy for the vacant deputy president position at the NPA. The assembly will be a pivotal moment for the party, providing an opportunity to elect new leadership and chart its course for the future.
As the EFF approaches this critical juncture, the handling of internal disputes and the outcomes of the NPA will play a decisive role in shaping its trajectory. How the leadership addresses these challenges could determine whether the party emerges stronger or faces further divisions.