EFF Appoints Sinawo Thambo as New MP, Replacing Resigned Deputy President Floyd Shivambu

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have swiftly filled the vacancy left by the resignation of Deputy President Floyd Shivambu from the South African Parliament. Sinawo Thambo, formerly the national spokesperson for the EFF, has been announced as Shivambu's replacement. Julius Malema, the leader of the EFF, delivered the news to members during his address at the Gauteng EFF provincial ground forces forum, held at the Orlando Community Hall in Soweto.

Floyd Shivambu's resignation came as a surprise to many within the party and the broader political landscape. In his departure letter, Shivambu made it clear that his exit was a strategic political maneuver rather than a result of personal grievances. Emphasizing the revolutionary nature of his choice, he suggested it was a move to foster unity and co-operation among progressive forces in the country.

As part of the organizational reshuffle, Shivambu's resignation entailed stepping down from his role as Deputy President and withdrawing from all party responsibilities, including his designation as a Member of Parliament.

Addressing the forum, Malema took the moment to galvanize EFF members, calling for a consolidation of the party's strength and focus. He passionately warned against the threats of opportunism and the presence of disloyal individuals within the party ranks, marking out factionalism and greed as dangers to the EFF's mission. Malema's speech impressed upon the membership the essential task of guarding the organization's integrity, especially in the run-up to the EFF's National People’s Assembly.

The announcement served as both a rallying cry and a closure to the period of adjustment following Shivambu's exit. Malema's directive was clear: the time for mourning had passed, and members needed to lace up their boots and press forward in their struggle — with the implication that under Thambo's parliamentary leadership, the party's legislative agenda would continue unabated.

As the EFF confronts this transition, it is making plans to not only defend its political ground but also to ensure it does not fall prey to internal divisions, which could jeopardize its standing in the national political discourse. The EFF remains a vital voice on the South African political scene, advocating for economic emancipation and social justice, and the appointment of Sinawo Thambo is an indication of the continuity of this advocacy.