1 week Ago By Dee-Dee Mathelela
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), once a powerhouse of radical politics , has suffered a severe blow in the recent elections, dropping from its place as the third-largest party to fourth, overtaken by Jacob Zuma’s newly established MK Party . Losing six seats, the EFF’s ambitions to rise to second have been shattered, cementing the party as the biggest losers of the national elections. This dramatic setback calls into question the future viability of the EFF.
High-Profile Departures The cracks within the EFF deepened with a series of high-profile exits. The resignation of Deputy President Floyd Shivambu in August 2024 opened the floodgates, with supporters , members and high ranking leaders such as Dali Mpofu , Mzwanele Manyi , Busisiwe Mkhwebane , and Fana Mokoena following suit. Shivambu’s move to the MK Party was a significant loss, stripping the EFF of one of its founders and ideological minds.
His departure has only further eroded the party’s influence. Echoes of COPE’s Decline The EFF’s trajectory eerily mirrors that of COPE, the once-promising breakaway party that took 30 seats in 2009 but dwindled to a mere two seats today. Like COPE, the EFF faces internal turmoil , diminishing support , and a loss of credibility among voters.
Analysts suggest the EFF is at risk of fading into political obscurity, just as COPE did , as its radical agenda seems to be losing resonance among the public. The Exodus Continues Julius Malema’s grip on leadership has also been questioned. Former National Chairperson Dali Mpofu, upon his exit, said the MK Party provided a “ vehicle for black and progressive unity.
” Malema’s response on social media hinted at further impending departures, cryptically stating, “ Only two more of your favourites remain .” The comment has fuelled speculation about additional resignations, weakening the EFF’s internal cohesion and public image. A Bleak Future Ahead With its open-border policies , chaotic leadership, and failure to deliver on promises , the EFF faces a tough path ahead.
Voters are increasingly turned off by the party’s lack of practical solutions, and it is struggling to retain its once-strong youth support. Political analyst Rekgotsofetse Chikane has noted that the EFF’s “lunch was eaten in KwaZulu-Natal” by the MK Party, marking a stark decline in one of its previously solid bases. Time to Hang Up the Beret? As the EFF falters, some suggest it might be time to hang up the red berets.
The losses in seats, credibility, and public support paint a dire picture for the party. With the local government elections approaching, the EFF must either undergo serious introspection or risk sinking into irrelevance. Unless drastic changes are made, the party that once inspired radical hope may soon be little more than a footnote in South African politics.
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