EFF's leadership race heats up as grassroots favor Ndlozi for deputy president

This weekend, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are expected to re-elect Julius Malema as party president for a third consecutive term, continuing his leadership since the EFF’s founding in 2013. Malema, known for his firm leadership style, will lead the party again, but this time without Floyd Shivambu as his deputy.

Shivambu vacated the position after leaving the EFF to join the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, founded by former President Jacob Zuma. Shivambu has since risen within the MK Party to serve as its secretary-general.

The EFF’s elective conference is being held at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Soweto, Johannesburg. The three-day event will decide the party’s new leadership, with the position of deputy president now open for contest.

Speculation suggests that Malema supports Godrich Gardee, the party's secretary-general, for the deputy president role. However, many EFF members, including those in the Central Command Team (CCT), are pushing for Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, the former spokesperson, to take the position. They believe Ndlozi is the best candidate for the job.

Tensions surrounding leadership choices are not new to the EFF. Challenging Malema has often led to expulsions. For example, in October, EFF Student Command member Kganki Mphahlele was expelled following a social media dispute with Malema. Mphahlele criticized Malema’s rumored preference for Gardee and voiced support for Ndlozi, claiming grassroots members favored him.

Some delegates have accused Malema of trying to impose Gardee as deputy president, while Ndlozi appears to have widespread support. However, Ndlozi’s absence from Thursday’s registration at UJ Soweto and the Central Command Team meeting has raised questions. Reports even suggest that Ndlozi may have been barred from attending the assembly.

Despite these developments, many knowledgeable party delegates continue to back Ndlozi, arguing he represents the will of the majority.