Spokesperson Mbuyiseni Ndlozi resigns as EFF Member of Parliament as party sources reveal his next move, bad news for Malema

Cape Town – In a move that has sent ripples through South African political circles, prominent Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Member of Parliament and former national spokesperson, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, has resigned from Parliament.

The announcement, made on Thursday by the EFF, confirms weeks of intense speculation surrounding Ndlozi’s future within the party. The resignation follows a period of evident discord between Ndlozi and party leader Julius Malema, culminating in Ndlozi’s absence from key party events and a noticeable cooling of their once close relationship.

The EFF’s official press statement confirmed the resignations of both Ndlozi and Yazini Tetyana, stating: “The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has received the voluntary resignations of fighter Yazini Tetyana and fighter Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi as representatives of the EFF in the Parliament of South Africa.”

The statement added that both resignations were submitted to EFF Secretary-General Marshall Dlamini within days of each other and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the party and the people of South Africa. The EFF accepted the resignations, acknowledging their diligent service since the party’s entry into Parliament in 2014.

Ndlozi’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the EFF’s history. He has been a visible and influential figure within the party since its inception, serving as its spokesperson for a considerable period and becoming a recognisable face in South African politics. His resignation follows a pattern of high-profile departures from the EFF, a trend that has raised questions about the party’s internal dynamics and stability.

The cracks in Ndlozi’s relationship with Malema became increasingly apparent in recent months. His absence from the EFF’s third elective congress in December, following reports of a falling out with Malema, fuelled speculation about his future. This was further exacerbated by his exclusion from crucial party activities, including the weekly meetings of the War Council and the Central Command Team (CCT).

Party insiders suggested that this exclusion was a strategic move by factions supporting the newly elected EFF deputy president, Godrich Gardee, potentially aiming to prevent Ndlozi from contesting the same position.

Rumours circulated that Ndlozi was considering leaving the EFF, perhaps returning to academia or joining former EFF leader Floyd Shivambu in the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). However, sources close to Ndlozi insisted that he was a victim of character assassination, pointing to his recent efforts to strengthen EFF branches nationwide. Despite this, critics within the party remained sceptical, suggesting that Ndlozi might be covertly building support for an unexpected leadership bid.

Yazini Tetyana, who also resigned, has had a distinguished career in politics, serving in the Eastern Cape provincial legislature before moving to national Parliament. The EFF praised both Tetyana and Ndlozi for their exemplary service, wishing them well in their future endeavours. The party’s statement highlighted their commendable contributions as public representatives.

The resignations of Ndlozi and Tetyana are the latest in a series of departures from the EFF. This exodus includes high-profile figures such as former deputy president Floyd Shivambu, former MPs Patrick Sindane, Mmabatho Mokause, Kenny Motsamai, and Busisiwe Mkhwebane, as well as former EFF Students Command head Mpho Morolane.

Mkhwebane, after citing a need to spend time with her family following her legal battles, joined the MKP as the Mpumalanga convener. Morolane also joined the MKP. These departures highlight the significant internal shifts within the EFF and raise questions about its future trajectory.

The speculation surrounding Ndlozi’s next move intensified in December, with reports suggesting his imminent departure from the EFF. Sources within the party confirmed his plans to join the MKP, citing a deepening rift with Malema that culminated in Ndlozi’s absence from the party’s National Peoples Assembly (NPA).

One EFF leader in KwaZulu-Natal stated: “We have known for a long time that Ndlozi is planning to dump the EFF in favour of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). That is what led to the strained relationship between him and the party leader, Julius Malema. Their relationship is now irreparable.”

Another EFF insider added: “The fact is that Ndlozi is well on his way out from the party. And he has made up his mind. His absence from the NPA speaks volumes about the growing animosity between him and Malema. It is unclear what came between the two leaders as they were once joined at the hip, especially during Ndlozi’s tenure as the spokesperson of the party. We are not happy as party members and leaders.”

The fallout between Malema and Ndlozi is particularly significant given Ndlozi’s prominence within the EFF. His supporters actively campaigned for him to contest the deputy president position, but Malema reportedly backed Godrich Gardee, who ultimately won the election.

Malema, when questioned about Ndlozi’s potential departure, responded dismissively: “We are not going to answer the question about Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. You have got his number, and some of you talk to him. We are not responsible for Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. Ninety percent of the people who were to be here are here. That is what matters. Whoever is not here was not supposed to be here, and it is not in our interest to entertain such nonsense.”

The potential move to the MKP, should it be confirmed, would represent a significant loss for the EFF. Independent political analyst Thobani Zikalala commented: ”It will not be a surprise if Ndlozi leaves the EFF. But maybe if he leaves now and goes to the MK Party, it would confirm what Julius has been saying that many would be following Floyd to the MK Party. It would be a big loss to the party. He is one of the senior leaders in the EFF and the first spokesperson of the party.”

Zikalala further highlighted Ndlozi’s significant influence and mass appeal within the party, emphasizing his intellectual contribution and strong connection with grassroots supporters.