Supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) received a definitive message concerning the status of esteemed MP Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi: he has been “cancelled,” at least in terms of his influence within the party.
Julius Malema’s change in attitude while addressing questions about Ndlozi highlighted the issues confronting Winnie Madikizela-Mandela House following the exit of his former associate Floyd Shivambu and others who have aligned with Jacob Zuma’s MK Party.
Ndlozi has faced backlash after Shivambu’s “betrayal,” as Malema termed it, due to the unrest it caused within the EFF.
As the conference kicked off on Friday, it became clear that the rumors surrounding his ban were indeed valid.
The noticeable absence of the former EFF spokesperson at the national elective conference held at Nasrec was striking, and Malema quickly dismissed any further inquiries from the media regarding Ndlozi’s standing within the party.
Ndlozi’s continued silence and lack of presence at EFF events raise questions about whether the accomplished politician will remain part of the organization that has essentially sidelined him.
In a passionate response on Saturday, Malema called inquiries about Ndlozi “nonsense” and “newspaper gossip.”
“Why are you fixating on one individual over the many present as if he is the conference?” a visibly irate Malema challenged reporters.
“As if this [conference] won’t go on? It is proceeding, and it is proceeding without him.
“We are tackling political matters here, not personal egos, not individuals who believe they are more significant than the organization; it will again illustrate that the organization surpasses all of them.
“As a matter of principle and policy, we will no longer entertain any nonsense concerning Mbuyiseni Ndlozi… Ever.”
Malema’s pointed comments regarding Ndlozi’s high-profile absence from the EFF conference clearly reflect the widening rift between the two politicians.
Ndlozi is effectively barred and muted.
This curt response exemplifies Malema asserting his dominance openly, dismissing the concerns of Ndlozi’s supporters.
Such a reaction captures Ndlozi’s current situation as Malema aims to fortify his grip on power while countering any internal dissent.
There were expectations that Ndlozi might follow Shivambu’s path, given their close professional ties, but Ndlozi has since reaffirmed his allegiance to the party.
Conversely, Malema’s approach is unlikely to appeal positively to the EFF’s supporters, especially those who wished to see Ndlozi elected to the top six this weekend.
Ndlozi holds considerable popularity among the red berets, particularly among the younger followers vital to EFF’s “generational mission.”
While this is a pivotal moment for the EFF as it faces the challenge of keeping members who are dissatisfied with Malema’s leadership style, he has opted to double down and reinforce his authority.
So, what lies ahead for Ndlozi?
Will he choose to depart from the EFF, or will he remain, showcase his loyalty, and strive to regain Malema’s confidence?
It is noteworthy that EFF MP Tebogo Mokwele, after her expulsion for accepting funds from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s CR22 campaign, was readmitted to the party and successfully reclaimed her position as an MP two months ago.
Ndlozi’s subsequent actions, should he decide to confront this impasse, will be critical for the EFF’s long-term sustainability.
*The author of this article is journalist Getrude Makhafola. The opinions expressed by Getrude Makhafola are not necessarily those of The Bulrushes
