Shivambu’s Shocking Departure from EFF: A New Chapter Ahead?

In a move that has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political landscape, Floyd Shivambu, the Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) deputy leader, announced his resignation on Thursday. The question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next for the stalwart politician?

Shivambu’s departure marks the biggest shake-up since the EFF’s launch 11 years ago. His Twitter bio, which describes him as a believer in Dialectical Materialism and Labour Theory of Value, hints at his intellectual and ideological leanings. While it may not make him the most relatable figure, it underscores his commitment to his beliefs.

As one of the EFF’s most prominent leaders, Shivambu has always been the serious one. Unlike his colleagues, Julius Malema and Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, who are known for their charisma and humor, Shivambu has focused on writing op-eds on topics such as decolonising knowledge systems, the scientific superiority of Marxism, and reindustrialisation.

Shivambu’s intellectual prowess has been evident in his work on the EFF’s seven “cardinal pillars,” which serve as the party’s ideological foundation. These pillars have been a crucial part of the EFF’s identity, and other political parties have had to demonstrate their understanding of them in order to form coalitions with the EFF.

ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula once referred to Shivambu as the EFF’s “true brains trust.” Now, that intellectual powerhouse is leaving the party to join forces with the man he and Malema worked closely with.

As Shivambu embarks on this new chapter, many are wondering how he will adapt to his new party, which is comprised of Zulu traditionalists. Will he be able to find common ground with his new colleagues, or will his departure from the EFF mark the end of an era? Only time will tell.