Floyd Shivambu, national organiser of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, speaks on Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh’s podcast about his decision to leave the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and join the MK party.
(The Post News)- Floyd Shivambu, the national organiser of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, has shed light on his highly publicised departure from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). In a recent podcast interview with Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh, Shivambu disclosed that most EFF leaders were aware of his intention to leave the party.
Shivambu’s August 15 departure from the EFF sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political landscape, with many speculating about the implications for the EFF’s future. However, Shivambu maintains that his decision to join the MK party was the “most correct, sound and best decision” for his political career.
According to Shivambu, many EFF leaders were privy to his plans to leave the party. “Some of the comrades said they were shocked I went to uMkhonto weSizwe Party, [but] the majority of leaders in the EFF knew I was joining uMkhonto weSizwe Party,” he revealed. Shivambu added that some EFF leaders even attempted to persuade him not to disclose his departure to EFF president Julius Malema.
Shivambu’s decision to join the MK party was not taken lightly. He acknowledged consulting with other EFF members, some of whom suggested a mass departure from the party. However, Shivambu was opposed to this idea, fearing it would be perceived as an orchestrated exodus instigated by him.
Shivambu’s move to the MK party marks a significant shift in his political journey. He expressed conviction that joining the MK party was the right decision, citing its commitment to “total decolonisation.” When asked if he anticipated more defections from the EFF, Shivambu responded, “I don’t expect more to join… Logically, it would make sense for those who want to pursue real revolutionary politics to associate with MKP.”
The MK party recently welcomed two high-profile additions: EFF MP and former public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane and ANC veteran Willies Mchunu. Mkhwebane and Mchunu will serve as KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga conveners, respectively.
Shivambu’s departure, coupled with Mkhwebane’s defection, has raised concerns about the EFF’s stability. Critics have predicted the party’s imminent demise, but the EFF remains resilient. Shivambu’s revelation that many EFF leaders knew of his departure suggests internal tensions within the party.
As South Africa’s political landscape continues to evolve, the MK party’s growth and influence will be closely watched. Shivambu’s decision to join the party may be seen as a strategic move, leveraging his experience and expertise to shape the MK party’s trajectory.
The developments within the EFF and MK party underscore the fluid nature of South African politics. As alliances are forged and broken, parties must adapt to changing circumstances. Shivambu’s interview offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of political decision-making, highlighting the complexities and nuances involved.
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