Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) co-founder and deputy president Floyd Shivambu is making headlines after announcing his resignation from the party and his decision to join the MK Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma.
At a press conference held at the EFF’s headquarters in Johannesburg, Shivambu, joined by Julius Malema and other EFF leaders, read out his resignation letter and confirmed his move to the MK Party. He had already submitted his resignation letter to Malema on Wednesday.
Shivambu explained that he will not renew his EFF membership and requested to step down from all his party duties, including his position as a Member of Parliament. He stressed that his departure was not due to a lack of faith in the EFF but was a strategic move to unite progressive forces.
Julius Malema, EFF leader, accepted Shivambu’s resignation and expressed his support, saying, “because Floyd to me is not just a Comrade. He is a Brother, and he will remain a Brother even when he pursues his Political career differently.” Malema also noted that Shivambu’s role as Deputy President of the EFF will stay vacant until the party’s conference in December.
Shivambu’s resignation comes amid difficulties for the EFF, including the VBS Mutual Bank scandal. There are allegations that Malema and Shivambu received illegal benefits from the scandal, which involves corruption and money laundering.
The EFF has planned an urgent press conference to discuss leadership changes and the impact of the VBS scandal. Tshifhiwa Matodzi, the bank’s chair, has accused Malema and Shivambu of accepting illegal funds, adding to the controversy.
Shivambu has been with the EFF since its start in 2013 and was a key figure in developing the party’s policies and the EFF Student Command. He is also expected to resign as the EFF chief whip in Parliament.
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