Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) deputy president Floyd Shivambu has strongly opposed his former party’s decision to brand the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party as its primary adversary, calling the move a serious political error. Now serving as Secretary General of the MK Party, Shivambu accused the EFF of failing to recognize potential allies in the fight for South Africa’s socio-economic transformation.
Shivambu, who recently joined the MK Party under former President Jacob Zuma’s leadership, addressed the issue during a closed political education session in Durban. “A true revolutionary must distinguish between opponents and possible partners,” he stated. “It’s both a tactical and ideological blunder for the EFF to treat MK as its biggest enemy.”
His comments follow the EFF’s recent declaration that the MK Party poses a major obstacle to progress—a stance many attribute to the MK Party’s growing electoral influence and its appeal among disenchanted ANC voters. Since entering Parliament after the 2024 elections, the MK Party has gained traction with its pro-poor, anti-establishment rhetoric, echoing themes once central to the EFF’s platform.
Shivambu stressed that both parties share key goals, including land reform, nationalization of critical industries, and radical economic transformation. “If we’re serious about dismantling white monopoly capital and empowering our people, we can’t fight those who share our vision,” he argued.
The veteran politician also suggested that personal conflicts and internal power dynamics might be driving the EFF’s aggressive stance. “The revolution shouldn’t be about individuals,” he said. “The people’s interests must come before personal rivalries.”
Shivambu’s exit from the EFF last month fueled speculation about tensions with its leadership. However, he has since maintained that his shift to the MK Party aligns with his commitment to leftist, pan-Africanist principles, which he believes the MK Party better represents.
His appeal for unity among progressive forces could spark renewed discussions about coalition-building and ideological alignment within South Africa’s left-wing opposition. While it remains uncertain whether the EFF will soften its stance, Shivambu’s remarks highlight the need for strategic cooperation in a divided political landscape.
