Floyd Shivambu, the deputy president of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has made the decision to depart from the party he co-founded alongside Julius Malema over a decade ago. Shivambu, who has been a central figure in the EFF since its inception, will be joining former president Jacob Zuma’s newly established Mkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party).

This departure marks a significant shift within the EFF, as Shivambu has been instrumental in shaping the party’s direction and policies. Julius Malema, the president of the EFF, expressed his deep emotional reaction to Shivambu’s decision during an EFF press briefing held on Thursday.

“When he told me that he was leaving, I felt the same pain I felt when I received the news of my mother’s passing,”

Malema said, describing the personal impact of Shivambu’s departure. He further acknowledged the gravity of the situation, calling it a critical moment for the EFF.

“It’s a testing moment for the EFF – the EFF has to pass this test or die. This is a new chapter for the EFF,”

Malema added, signalling the need for resilience within the party as they navigate this leadership change.

Shivambu’s political journey has seen him transition from being a spokesperson for the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) to becoming one of the most prominent leaders in the EFF. His break from the ANC in 2013 came amidst disciplinary proceedings, which he faced alongside Malema. While the ANC eventually expelled Malema, Shivambu managed to avoid disciplinary action but chose to leave the party regardless. Together, they then established the EFF, positioning it as a formidable force in South African politics.

Despite this deep history with the EFF, Shivambu’s decision to leave appears resolute. Malema revealed that he had made efforts to persuade his longtime ally to reconsider his departure.

“I told him that when you resign from the EFF, you are resigning from yourself because you are the founder of the EFF,”

Malema stated. Despite these efforts, Shivambu’s mind was made up, and Malema offered his well-wishes for the future.

“We wish the deputy all the success and we know wherever he goes he will be of value,”

Malema concluded, expressing confidence in Shivambu’s future contributions, even outside the EFF.

Speaking during the same press briefing, Shivambu reflected on his decision to leave the party. He emphasized that, despite his departure, he still aligns with the core principles of the EFF.

“I will never abandon my commitment to economic freedom,”

Shivambu affirmed, underscoring his continued belief in the economic ideals that have defined both his career and the EFF’s mission.

Notably, the MK Party and the EFF share common ground, as both organizations have signed a “progressive charter.” This charter outlines key objectives that both parties aim to achieve, particularly around land reform and economic transformation. Shivambu highlighted this alignment in his remarks.

“The progressive charter says we must fight for land expropriation without compensation,”

Shivambu stated, signaling his ongoing dedication to these shared goals, even as he shifts his political allegiance.

Shivambu is not the only prominent figure leaving the EFF for the MK Party. Other high-profile members, including EFF Member of Parliament Mzwanele Manyi, have also made the move, suggesting a broader shift within certain factions of the party.