Floyd Shivambu Cites Jacob Zuma’s Breakaway as Inspiration for Exiting EFF

Former EFF Deputy President Floyd Shivambu has drawn parallels between his decision to leave the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and former President Jacob Zuma’s bold move to form the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party after departing from the African National Congress (ANC).

During a recent political briefing, Shivambu downplayed the significance of his resignation from the EFF, describing it as “just a 10-year-old organization.” He remarked, “President Zuma left the ANC, an organization with over a century of history, to establish the MK Party. If such a decision can be made in pursuit of principle, then leaving a 10-year-old organization like the EFF should not instill fear.”

Shivambu’s exit from the EFF, which he co-founded with Julius Malema in 2013, has sparked widespread debate about internal divisions within the party and raised questions about his next political steps.

His comments referencing Zuma have fueled speculation about a potential alignment with the MK Party, which has gained traction in some parts of South Africa. Political analyst Mpho Khumalo noted, “Shivambu’s statement suggests he is aligning himself with forces challenging the status quo, much like Zuma did when he broke away from the ANC.”

Although Shivambu has not confirmed any plans to join the MK Party, his remarks signal a growing realignment in South Africa’s political opposition. Meanwhile, the EFF has maintained silence on his departure, though insiders suggest tensions between Shivambu and Malema over the party’s direction played a significant role.

Shivambu’s parting words emphasized a broader trend of prioritizing principles over organizational loyalty, stating, “In politics, courage to move forward is often inspired by those who came before us.”

As South Africa’s political landscape continues to evolve, Shivambu’s departure from the EFF marks another shift in the ongoing reshaping of the country’s opposition dynamics.