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Unravelling Lies & The Myth of Political Brotherhood

Writer: Dumisani Baleni | Photographs: Supplied

Floyd Shivambu’s recent appearance on Sizwe Mpofu-Walsh’s podcast was marked by an unsettling blend of revisionist narratives and outright distortions. Delivered with apparent ease, these claims seem calculated, perhaps counting on the silence of those who could challenge him—either because they lack the courage or because those brave enough are not entirely truthful in their own intentions. Shivambu’s statements not only misrepresent the events leading to his departure from the EFF but also undermine the very principles he once championed within the Party.

First Lie: “I was misled into joining the #ZumaMustFall campaign.” Misled by whom? It’s implausible that the Deputy President, who attended every internal and multi-party meeting to organize the campaign, could be misled in such a significant effort. This assertion lacks credibility and fails to acknowledge the collective efforts that characterized the campaign. By deflecting responsibility, Shivambu diminishes the commitment of many who worked tirelessly for the cause.

Second Lie: “One reason I left was because of the Party’s language in characterizing situations and people; it’s crude language.” Ironically, in the same interview, Floyd uses the very language he criticizes and apologizes as if he’s unlearning it. The truth is, he introduced this language to the Fighters. Floyd has consistently employed dismissive and abrasive language toward opponents and critics, both inside and outside the Party. This inconsistency undermines his credibility and raises questions about his sincerity. Many find it easier to interact with the CIC, who is notably less abrasive, illustrating that Floyd’s approach is often more confrontational than constructive.

Third Lie: “I joined the MKP because it’s the best route to unite progressive forces rather than perpetuating small fiefdoms of political leaders.” For someone who claims strategic insight, he should have realized that moving to the MKP would further divide the progressive base, driving a wedge between EFF and MKP supporters. Since Floyd’s departure, the Progressive Caucus has become even more fragmented. Why didn’t he advocate for unity within the EFF, where the chances for cohesion were greater? Instead of fostering collaboration, his actions seem to have amplified existing divisions, ultimately hindering the progress of the very movement he claims to support.

Fourth Lie: “I conceptualized the EFF’s documents and language.” The Cardinal Pillars are not unique; they’re derived from revolutionary programs shared across the Left, echoing Hani’s speeches and the Freedom Charter. Julius Malema spoke about these principles long before meeting Shivambu. In fact, Floyd has attempted to downplay figures like Frantz Fanon in favour of promoting a purely materialist stance within the EFF, which was evident during the EFF’s previous Political Education Program at Emperors Palace. Young activists even challenged Floyd’s effort to steer the EFF toward a strictly communist ideology. Terms like “Commissars” and “CIC” are common in socialist circles; Floyd didn’t originate them. The EFF’s Founding Manifesto was shaped by a coalition of voices, including activists from SNI, the Youth League, academics, and civil society. Floyd’s role in the Party’s intellectual formation was neither solitary nor all-encompassing.

Though Shivambu oversaw research, policy, and ideological direction, it’s misleading to imply he single-handedly created the EFF’s foundational principles. Figures like Andile Mngxitama, Malekane, and others also claim credit for the Party’s ideological contributions, showing that Malema has always led democratically, allowing others space to contribute. The notion that Floyd alone conceptualized the EFF’s documents serves to obscure the collective effort that went into their creation.

Fifth Lie: The idea of “brotherhood” in the Party has been exaggerated. Floyd’s characterization reflects a ‘gangster culture’ of blind loyalty, distorting genuine political camaraderie. Political missions bring people together for a common cause. While calling each other “Comrade” does not mean agreeing on everything, it requires a baseline of trust—an essential bond in the high-stakes world of politics. How can one place their trust in someone whose motives remain ambiguous, especially when the stakes are so high? Political objectives are critically important, but they cannot be advanced with people whom you cannot subjectively trust to have your back.

Shivambu’s assertion that some Commissars were aware of his move to the MKP casts a shadow of doubt on their loyalty and intentions. This claim seems more like a recruitment strategy than a genuine expression of solidarity. He appears to be attempting to lure individuals who have been tempered by their experiences in the EFF to join him in the MKP, which is currently populated by former bureaucrats who served under Zuma and who are known for their corruption and ineffectiveness. This reliance on a discredited political culture suggests a retreat from the values that once defined the movement.

In light of these revelations, it is crucial for one of the outspoken Commissars—someone with political and social stature equal to Shivambu’s—to take the initiative to rebut these falsehoods. The need for integrity within the Party has never been more pressing. Restoring confidence within the Party is imperative to ensure that its members remain united and focused on their collective mission. Only through open dialogue and the courage to confront misleading narratives can the EFF continue to thrive and advance its goals in the political landscape. The path forward requires a recommitment to honesty, accountability, and a shared vision, where the voices of all members contribute to the Party’s progress. Without this, the EFF risks becoming a fragmented entity, more concerned with individual ambitions than with the revolutionary ideals that brought its members together in the first place.

 *Dumisani Baleni is the EFF Gauteng Media and Communications Officer.

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