Julius Malema in tough KZN dilemma as focus shifts to Floyd Shivambu

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is considering potential changes to its leadership structure in KwaZulu-Natal, with discussions revolving around the possibility of reassigning its deputy president, Floyd Shivambu, or bolstering the party’s election machinery in the province ahead of the upcoming national and provincial elections.

Party leader Julius Malema emphasized that any strategic shifts should be viewed as responses to the evolving political landscape in KwaZulu-Natal, which is anticipated to be a crucial battleground in the upcoming elections.

With the emergence of Jacob Zuma’s umkhonto wesizwe (MK) party vying for support in KwaZulu-Natal, alongside intensified efforts from the ANC and Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), Malema highlighted the importance of reassessing the EFF’s approach to the province.

KwaZulu-Natal ranks among the top three provinces with the highest number of voters, alongside Gauteng and the Western Cape.

While Shivambu faced criticism following the EFF’s recent manifesto launch at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Malema clarified that any potential changes in leadership deployment should not be linked to the event’s attendance.

He underscored that such decisions are part of the party’s ongoing evaluation process to optimize its election strategy.

Malema emphasized that the EFF’s leadership would evaluate Shivambu’s effectiveness in KwaZulu-Natal amidst the shifting political dynamics in the province.

Discussions within the party’s top structures, including the central election task force and central command team, are set to take place to assess the party’s electoral strengths and weaknesses, culminating in informed decisions regarding leadership deployments in key regions.

Malema affirmed that transparency would be maintained throughout the decision-making process, with clear communication on any outcomes or changes in leadership roles.