Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of Parliament and current PowerFM radio station presenter, Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, has firmly shut down any speculation regarding a potential return to the party, stating unequivocally, “You can’t lead them if you don’t love them.”
The comment, made during a candid interview on his Powertalk radio show, comes in the wake of growing rumors about his possible re-entry into the political fold as the EFF prepares for its upcoming national conference. Despite the party’s rising influence, Ndlozi, who once served as one of the party’s most recognizable voices, said his position on leadership and political engagement had evolved.
When asked if he would consider returning to the EFF, the charismatic leader did not mince words. “No, I will not go back to the EFF,” he asserted. “Leadership is not about power; it’s about people. You can’t lead them if you don’t love them. I have a deep respect for the EFF, but my path lies elsewhere, in promoting the principles of justice and equality in different ways.”
Dr. Ndlozi’s departure from the EFF was marked by a flurry of media speculation, with many wondering whether his fiery rhetoric and connection with the party’s youth base would result in a political comeback. However, he emphasized that the political landscape, and indeed the nature of leadership itself, had changed drastically.
During the interview, Dr. Ndlozi reflected on his time in politics, noting that his views on leadership were deeply rooted in empathy and a genuine connection with the people. “You can’t lead people with arrogance or anger; it’s about understanding their struggles and being willing to fight for them on a human level,” he explained.
Although his response was a definitive “no,” Ndlozi’s comments sparked a broader conversation about leadership in South Africa’s contemporary political landscape. He suggested that true leaders should prioritize the well-being of their people and that the future of politics should be rooted in love and care for the masses, rather than the quest for power or ego-driven pursuits.
Dr. Ndlozi’s post-EFF career has seen him delve deeper into media and social activism, where he continues to champion human rights and social justice. His show, Powertalk, has become a platform for discussing pressing national issues, from economic inequality to human dignity.
In a final reflection on his time with the EFF, Ndlozi said, “I’ll always support the values that the party stands for, but leadership is about what you’re willing to sacrifice and the love you have for your people. That’s the true measure of leadership, not titles or positions.”