EFF leader Julius Malema has reignited political debate after making strong claims about former president Jacob Zuma’s relationships with his political allies and inner circle.
During a recent address, Malema said many of those who supported Zuma during his earlier political struggles were eventually pushed aside once they had served their purpose.
“Go look at the people who supported Zuma from the beginning, all of them are no longer there. Once he uses you, he throws you very far,” Malema said, adding that Zuma has remained close to only one person his daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla.
His comments have sparked widespread discussion in political circles and on social media, especially amid speculation about Nhlamulo Ndhlela’s position and influence within Zuma’s camp and the uMkhonto weSizwe Party.
Some observers believe Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla could potentially influence internal dynamics involving Ndhlela, particularly as factional tensions continue to surface within the party.
Political analysts say Malema’s remarks are likely to intensify divisions in opposition politics while also renewing scrutiny of Zuma’s leadership style and how loyalty is managed within his political network.
According to analyst Thabiso Ndlovu, Malema is known for making provocative statements that shape political discourse. He noted that the comments reinforce a long-standing belief that Zuma’s inner circle operates on selective loyalty, with close family members maintaining stronger influence.
Neither Zuma nor Ndhlela had responded publicly to the remarks by Wednesday evening. However, supporters of the former president dismissed the claims, arguing that they are politically motivated attempts to undermine his influence.
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla has increasingly positioned herself as a key defender of her father and the MK Party, often speaking out on social media and in public, which has led to speculation about her growing political influence.
At the same time, uncertainty continues around Ndhlela’s standing within the party, with insiders suggesting that further internal shifts could still emerge in the near future.
Overall, Malema’s comments have once again highlighted the shifting and often personal nature of South African politics, where alliances remain fluid and loyalty is a powerful but fragile force.