Political shakeup in South Africa as EFF deputy leader joins Zuma’s Party

South Africa’s political landscape is experiencing a significant shift as Floyd Shivambu, deputy leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), resigns to join former president Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party. This move deals a blow to the EFF, which saw its vote share decline in the recent national election, while MK surged to become the third-largest party in parliament.

Both EFF and MK are part of a leftist opposition alliance formed after the election to counter the ruling coalition. Shivambu’s switch highlights MK’s growing appeal, particularly in Zuma’s home province of KwaZulu-Natal. EFF leader Julius Malema acknowledged the challenge, stating it’s a “testing moment” for the party.

The two parties share similar policies, including bank and mine nationalization, land expropriation for Black farmers, and criticism of “white monopoly capital.” This ideological overlap may explain Shivambu’s transition.

Zuma’s expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC) earlier this year and MK’s subsequent electoral success have reshaped South Africa’s political dynamics. As the country grapples with economic challenges and calls for radical change, this latest development suggests a potential realignment of leftist forces that could significantly impact future elections and policy-making.

The departure of a key figure like Shivambu could potentially weaken the EFF’s position, while strengthening MK’s appeal to voters seeking alternatives to mainstream parties. This shift may lead to a reconfiguration of South Africa’s opposition landscape, potentially altering the balance of power in future elections.