Only two of your favourites left, and the list will be final,” EFF leader Julius Malema declared, as news broke that former EFF MP Dali Mpofu had defected to Jacob Zuma’s Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP). This marks a significant shift as the EFF braces for further defections. Malema’s cryptic statement suggests that more exits could be on the horizon as the party’s dynamics continue to evolve
Julius Malema hinted at more EFF defections on X, following Dali Mpofu’s move to Jacob Zuma’s MKP. “Only two of your favourites remain, and the list will be final,” he said.
They sing beautifully and are always willing to pose for pictures and sign roll calls, but remember, their souls are long gone. To prevent any potential hurt, it’s crucial to heed the guidance of the leadership. We remain standing and are not going anywhere under a criminal syndicate.
His comments led many to speculate that he was referring to EFF MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, although the identities of the two people he mentioned remain unclear. This follows earlier departures from the EFF to the MKP, including former deputy leader Floyd Shivambu, whose exit in August Malema openly criticized. Shivambu was soon joined by Mzwanele Manyi, who now serves as the MKP’s chief whip in Parliament. Speculation about further defections continues, with names like Carl Niehaus, Veronica Mente, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, Ndlozi, and Mpofu often mentioned.
Niehaus denied plans to leave the EFF, while Mkhwebane, who initially pledged loyalty, resigned in September to focus on family matters.
In her resignation letter, Mkhwebane expressed gratitude to the party for its support during her “time of need.” She stated:
After careful consideration and talking to my family, they advised and felt I needed to go away, spend time with them, rest and continue to fight for the vulnerable where possible.
By October, Mkhwebane was named the provincial convener for the MKP in Mpumalanga. Speculation suggests Ndlozi may wait until the EFF’s elective conference in December before deciding his next move. Meanwhile, Mpofu, also Zuma’s legal representative, revealed he had a key role in founding the MKP, discussing it with Zuma after the ANC’s 2022 conference. Following a period of reflection, Mpofu chose to join the MKP, believing true liberation could only be achieved through the movement.
