By: Mashudu Magadu
On August 19, 2024, Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), challenged anyone who wants to leave his party to do so immediately. This statement came after his former ally Floyd Shivambu left the EFF to join the MK Party, and amid rumors that others might also be planning to leave.
Malema addressed many supporters at the Orlando Community Hall in Soweto, emphasizing that the party will focus on growth and exclude those who are only self-serving.
Regarding the government of national unity (GNU) that the EFF is not part of, Malema declared it should be considered an enemy of his party. He noted that the members who recently left were the ones suggesting the EFF join the GNU.
“They told us to join the GNU, but then the DA and Freedom Front Plus would leave,” he said. “I repeated the question I had asked during the negotiations: ‘If we join the GNU and the DA doesn’t leave, what should we do?’”
Malema also called for everything associated with Shivambu to be dismantled and removed.
“Everything that resembles the former deputy president shall be dismantled in the EFF and gotten rid of with immediate effect,” he said.
Malema declared that this is a fight, and those who want to engage will face it. He warned party members not to be “manipulated” by those who have “turned their backs” on the struggle.
