EFF leader Julius Malema has publicly questioned whether former president Jacob Zuma has truly forgiven him and his party for their role in Zuma’s 2018 ousting from power. The revelation came during a weekend rally in the Eastern Cape, where Malema shared details of a private discussion with EFF deputy Floyd Shivambu.
“I asked Floyd if he thinks Zuma has made peace with what happened,” Malema told supporters. “From what I can tell, that forgiveness hasn’t come.” The comments mark a rare moment of reflection from the typically combative opposition leader about his fractured relationship with his former mentor.
Their political bond, once strong during Malema’s ANC Youth League leadership days, deteriorated as Malema became one of Zuma’s fiercest critics over governance concerns. “We stood firm on principle regarding his handling of state affairs,” Malema acknowledged. “But I wonder if we caused wounds that never healed.”
The introspection comes amid speculation about potential collaboration between EFF deputy Shivambu and Zuma’s MK party – a development that could reshape South Africa’s opposition politics. Political analysts see Malema’s softened tone as strategic positioning ahead of 2026 elections.
“Malema isn’t just seeking closure,” noted political analyst Sizwe Mahlangu. “He’s potentially testing waters for cooperation with Zuma’s growing support base.” While Zuma hasn’t responded to Malema’s latest remarks, the former president has previously voiced feelings of betrayal by former allies.
As opposition parties jockey for position, Malema’s public reckoning with past conflicts signals both political maturity and the complex calculus of alliance-building in South Africa’s evolving landscape. Whether this leads to reconciliation or remains rhetorical positioning, it underscores how historical tensions continue to shape the country’s political future.
