On August 19, 2024, Shivambu took to X (formerly Twitter) to clarify the reasons behind his exit, dispelling rampant speculation. In his post, Shivambu dismissed the circulating rumors, labeling them as “FALSE” and characterizing his resignation as “a revolutionary act that will allow Progressive Forces to unite and work towards the agenda for progressive and revolutionary change.” He invoked Karl Marx, noting that like Marx, addressing every rumor would require “a score of secretaries.”
Shivambu’s resignation from the EFF is significant given his position as a founding member and deputy president. His departure has sparked widespread speculation about the internal dynamics of the EFF and his possible future political moves. The reference to “Progressive Forces” uniting hints at a broader political realignment, one that could involve a coalition of leftist groups disillusioned with the EFF’s current trajectory.
The timing of Shivambu’s exit is particularly noteworthy as it follows closely on the heels of Mzwanele Manyi’s resignation from the EFF. Like Shivambu, Manyi was a prominent figure within the EFF before joining forces with the Jacob Zuma-led MK Party. This sequence of high-profile exits suggests a coordinated shift among certain factions within the EFF, possibly driven by differences with Julius Malema’s leadership or dissatisfaction with the party’s strategic direction.
Shivambu’s departure could be seen as part of a broader realignment within South Africa’s leftist political sphere. The MK Party, led by former President Jacob Zuma, has been gaining momentum as a potential alternative for those dissatisfied with the current leadership of both the African National Congress (ANC) and the EFF. Zuma’s influence, particularly among ANC veterans and those loyal to his political vision, makes the MK Party a formidable force.
Shivambu’s reference to uniting “Progressive Forces” might signal his intent to align with the MK Party or form a new coalition with similar ideologies. His departure from the EFF, following Manyi’s similar move, suggests that these former EFF leaders could be positioning themselves within a new political formation, potentially leading to a significant shift in South Africa’s political landscape.
For the EFF, Shivambu’s resignation is a major setback. As a key figure in the party, his exit not only weakens the party’s leadership but also raises concerns about its internal stability. The EFF now faces the challenge of addressing the ideological rifts that have led to these high-profile departures while maintaining its appeal to voters.
Julius Malema, the EFF’s leader, now has the daunting task of keeping the party united and ensuring that it remains a dominant force in South African politics. Shivambu’s departure, coupled with Manyi’s exit, could lead to further defections, especially if the MK Party gains traction as a viable alternative.
Floyd Shivambu’s departure from the EFF is more than just the resignation of a senior leader; it could mark the beginning of a significant realignment within South Africa’s leftist politics. Whether his exit leads to the formation of a new coalition or further fragments the political left remains to be seen. What is clear is that Shivambu’s decision has set the stage for potentially dramatic shifts in the country’s political landscape, with far-reaching implications for the upcoming elections and the future of the EFF.
Sources: IOL, News24, Political Analysis South Africa (IOL | News that Connects South Africans) (IOL | News that Connects South Africans).
