Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) deputy president Floyd Shivambu has claimed that senior figures within the party once collectively believed that party leader Julius Malema was not suitable to lead South Africa at a national level.
Shivambu made the remarks during a recent public appearance, saying the view was not limited to one individual but was reportedly shared across the EFF’s top leadership structures.
He explained that internal discussions within the party led to a common conclusion that it would be unfair to present Malema as a prospective national leader. According to him, concerns were not confined to former EFF chairperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi but were echoed by several senior members. “It’s not only Mbuyiseni, all senior EFF members knew. We discussed it and reached the same conclusion that we’re not being fair to society if we say that this comrade can lead this country. We were unanimous,” Shivambu stated.
The comments offer a rare glimpse into the internal dynamics of the EFF, a party established in 2013 that has become a significant force in South African politics, advocating for policies such as land reform, economic transformation, and stronger anti-corruption measures.
Shivambu’s remarks also highlight the balance political parties often try to maintain between internal assessments and their public messaging. In many cases, such internal debates can shape leadership planning, unity, and long-term strategy, especially when questions arise about a leader’s readiness for national office.
The issue further raises broader considerations about political leadership standards, including governance ability, strategic decision-making, and coalition-building skills—qualities often evaluated within party structures even if not publicly acknowledged.
Although Shivambu is no longer part of the EFF leadership, his comments have sparked renewed reflection on how political organisations assess their leaders and how those judgments align with voter expectations for competence, accountability, and transparency in public office.