Aug 20, 2024
Malema to EFF Defectors: "We Will Not Beg Anyone to Stay
Those Who Want to Leave, Must Leave"
South African Politics | 20 August 2024
Marshall Dlamini, the EFF's secretary-general, has been appointed as the new chief whip in parliament. Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has reassigned key party responsibilities following the recent defection of his former deputy, Floyd Shivambu, to Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party. This leadership shift comes as Malema reaffirms his stance that the EFF will not plead for loyalty from its members.
Marshall Dlamini, the EFF's secretary-general, has been appointed as the new chief whip in parliament, taking over the duties previously handled by Shivambu. Malema’s office will now directly oversee the governance task unit, which includes EFF leaders in provincial legislatures, municipal councils, and parliamentary whips. This unit plays a crucial role in the party's governance activities.
Addressing the EFF's Gauteng provincial ground forces in Soweto on Monday—his first appearance since Shivambu’s departure—Malema made it clear that those contemplating leaving the party should do so immediately. "You must leave today because nothing is going to change now. Leave now; we have no reason to beg anyone," Malema stated, visibly agitated. He encouraged members thinking of following Shivambu to exit before the party's upcoming elective conference.
Former party spokesperson Sinawo Thambo is set to replace Shivambu in parliament, while Nazier Paulsen will fill the seat left by Mzwanele Manyi, another member who has defected to the MK party.
Shivambu’s exit occurs just four months before the EFF’s third conference, where new leadership will be elected. The conference, initially expected to witness a competitive race for the deputy and secretary-general positions, now faces the challenge of internal instability following the defections.
The EFF is still dealing with its disappointing performance in the 29 May general elections, where it lost its status as the country’s third-largest party to the MK party.
During Monday’s address, Malema did not shy away from expressing his discontent with Shivambu’s decision, asserting that the EFF would continue its mission even if it meant standing alone. He also called out those within the party who have remained silent amid the defections, labeling them as "silent enemies" and demanding they declare their intentions.
"Why do you keep on choosing people who never choose you?" Malema questioned, criticizing those considering leaving the party for what they perceive as greener pastures.
Malema concluded his speech by urging EFF members to unite and protect the party from any internal or external threats as the December conference approaches. He warned against opportunism, factionalism, and self-entitlement, stressing the need to stay focused on the EFF's generational mission.
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