Gauteng ANC provincial chairperson and Premier, Panyaza Lesufi, has advised caution in responding to the departure of Floyd Shivambu from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). Addressing the ANC’s provincial executive committee (PEC) lekgotla in Ekurhuleni, Lesufi emphasised that Shivambu’s exit should be analyzed strategically to strengthen the African National Congress (ANC).
“Shivambu’s departure to the MK party is significant and should not be dismissed lightly,” Lesufi remarked. He warned against premature celebration, noting that the ANC is also experiencing defections to the MK party. Lesufi highlighted the need for careful management of these shifts to avoid undermining the ANC’s stability.
Lesufi also urged the ANC to focus on winning the support of South Africans and re-engaging with organizations like the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) and religious groups that have drifted away. He underscored the importance of maintaining a “generational mix” within the party’s leadership, suggesting that Shivambu’s departure underscores this necessity.
Additionally, Lesufi acknowledged the role of EFF leadership in recent political developments, including the ANC’s success in regaining the mayoral position in Johannesburg.
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