African National Congress (ANC) Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has brushed off speculation of a feud between Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leaders Julius Malema and Floyd Shivambu, calling it exaggerated theatrics.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, Mbalula downplayed rumors of tension within the EFF’s top leadership. “It’s just a movie, pure fiction,” he said. “In reality, these two are very close. People are reading too much into political posturing and public performances.”
His comments follow growing speculation on social and political platforms about a rift between Malema, the EFF’s commander-in-chief, and his deputy Shivambu. Rumors intensified after Shivambu’s noticeable absence from several high-profile EFF events, including the party’s recent anniversary celebrations.
However, Mbalula suggested a more complex political dynamic, hinting at behind-the-scenes collaboration across party lines. In a surprising revelation, he claimed Shivambu had played a role in managing key figures within the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party. “Floyd was tasked with handling Dali Mpofu and Jacob Zuma within the MK Party,” Mbalula said. “Some of these political relationships are that intricate and strategic.”
If true, the claim could reshape public perceptions of Shivambu’s political alliances beyond the EFF. Mpofu, a former EFF national chairperson, has since aligned closely with Zuma and the MK Party, which emerged as a formidable force in the recent elections.
While Mbalula did not provide concrete evidence, his remarks have sparked debate among analysts, with some suggesting they reveal deeper coordination in South Africa’s shifting political landscape.
Neither Shivambu nor Malema has publicly responded, and EFF spokesperson Sinawo Tambo has yet to address Mbalula’s statements. The ANC leader, however, remained adamant that public perceptions of an EFF split are fueled by political mischief and misinformation. “People love drama,” he said. “But not everything in politics is as it seems.”
As speculation persists, the political sphere awaits a potential response from the EFF leadership.