Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Leaves EFF: A Political Exodus Amidst Tensions with Malema

by Hope Ngobeni

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Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, a prominent figure in the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), officially announced his departure from the party on Thursday morning, marking the end of his tenure as one of the party’s key voices in Parliament. His resignation, while a shock to many, seemed inevitable to others who had witnessed mounting tensions within the EFF’s leadership. For some time, critics of Julius Malema’s leadership style had speculated that Ndlozi might part ways with the party, and in a post-resignation reflection, social media users expressed a mix of relief and sadness.

Joining Ndlozi in his resignation was Yazini Tetyana, a fellow Member of Parliament, who also made the decision to step down from her role. The EFF confirmed both resignations in an official statement, acknowledging the contributions of Ndlozi and Tetyana to the party’s efforts in Parliament. The party expressed understanding of their voluntary decisions, emphasizing the respect it holds for their service, even as it faced the loss of two of its most prominent figures in the legislature.

The reasons behind Ndlozi’s departure have been the subject of much speculation. In August 2024, some South African social media users accused Julius Malema of running the EFF with a heavy hand, likening his leadership style to that of a dictator. This dynamic between Malema and Ndlozi seemed increasingly strained, with observers noting Ndlozi’s apparent frustration and efforts to resist Malema’s dominance. “Ndlozi continues to frustrate that dictator who wants him gone. Stay put, my leader,” one user posted on the platform X, highlighting the ongoing internal conflict within the party. Ndlozi’s departure can thus be seen as the culmination of this long-brewing discord.

The public reaction to Ndlozi’s resignation has been divided but often pointed. Some users voiced their support for him, expressing relief that he had finally left what they viewed as a toxic environment. “Am I the only one who’s happy for Dr Ndlozi? He’s endured quite a lot of disrespect from Malema as an EFF member. FINALLY!” wrote Sphelele Mazibuko, a sentiment echoed by others who believed that Ndlozi’s decision was a necessary step towards reclaiming his dignity.

For some, Ndlozi’s exit was likened to someone escaping an abusive relationship. Aphelele Tyelbooi’s comment that society celebrates the departure of a person from an oppressive situation seemed to capture the sentiment of many who believed that Ndlozi had been treated unfairly by the party leadership. It suggested a broader feeling that Ndlozi’s continued loyalty to Malema and the EFF had led to personal and professional harm.

However, not all reactions were celebratory. Some commentators expressed regret at Ndlozi’s resignation, acknowledging his valuable contributions in Parliament. “No matter what you think of him, parliament will certainly be poorer without Dr Ndlozi there! This is a huge loss for the country,” wrote Mlamuli Hlatshwayo, highlighting the void left by his departure. Ndlozi had been an eloquent and forceful advocate in the legislature, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt in the ongoing political discourse in South Africa.

Others reflected on the broader implications of such a resignation. One user on X, DreamerSib, pointed out that Ndlozi’s departure was a consequence of a larger pattern of mistreatment within the party, urging that this might be the natural outcome when individuals turn a blind eye to how others are treated within the ranks. This sentiment resonates with the idea that once the internal culture of a party becomes toxic, the toll it takes on individual members can become untenable, leading to exits like Ndlozi’s.

While Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s future political plans remain unclear, his departure from the EFF is undeniably a momentous event. Whether one views it as the end of a chapter in South Africa’s political landscape or a necessary step for his personal well-being, the consequences for both the EFF and the broader political environment are undeniable. Parliament, undoubtedly, will feel the absence of one of its more dynamic and charismatic figures, and his next steps, whatever they may be, will continue to capture the attention of a nation that is ever watchful of the shifting tides of its political drama.

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