Turmoil in the EFF: Malema's Fear of Losing Leadership Thwarts GNU Inclusion

The decision by Julius Malema, the charismatic and controversial leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), to pull out of negotiations for inclusion in South Africa's government of national unity (GNU) has sent ripples through the nation's political landscape. Malema, who has led the EFF with unyielding resolve since its inception in 2014, ostensibly reneged on an agreement that would have afforded his party valuable seats in government because he feared an ensuing internal shuffle might unseat him from the helm. This revelation hints at deep-seated paranoia and power struggles within the party renowned for its red berets and vigorous rhetoric.

This watershed moment came to light following the recent high-profile resignation of EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu and the much-talked-about recruitment of Shivambu by Former President Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party. This move was seen as a significant coup for MK due to Shivambu's indelible influence on South African politics. These shuffles are not simply about changing political roles; they encapsulate a bigger story of strategic plays, fears of usurping, and the politics of survival at play within the EFF.

Malema's initial agreement to join the GNU was prompted by promising negotiations conducted by key figures in the EFF, notably Shivambu and Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. This collaboration, however, soured when Malema discerned that by accepting the ANC's offer to incorporate EFF leadership into ministerial roles, he might inadvertently empower his colleagues. The prospect of Shivambu as deputy finance minister and Ndlozi as minister of higher education raised alarm for Malema. The prospects of granting his potential rivals such resources and influence paved the way for the fraught decision to withdraw from the GNU, sacrificing four ministries and five deputy ministries for the EFF.

Amid this political shakeup, the EFF has also been besieged by speculations and denials, including the dismissal of claims of Ndlozi's resignation. It's a narrative of discord, sharply contrasting with the EFF's public posture of unity and defiance. Malema himself addressed these turbulent times with marked ire during a speech at the Gauteng Provincial Ground Forces Forum, using the platform to deride any "cowards" who abandon the party.

The departure of Shivambu signals more than just a prominent figure leaving; it suggests vulnerabilities in the EFF's armor. Political analysts, casting a sober eye over these events, predict potential pitfalls ahead. Ntsikelelo Breakfast points to a precarious future, while Goodenough Mashego draws parallels to autocratic leadership styles à la Robert Mugabe.

The EFF's immediate challenges are twofold: to weather the storm of internal dispute and to restore public trust in its cohesion. This fraying at the seams comes at a time when the party is gearing itself for the important third elective conference and the 2026 local government elections. How the EFF responds to these developments may well define its trajectory for years to come, determining whether it can emerge stronger or become a footnote in the annals of South African politics.