Malema pained by Shivambu's EFF exit but willing to bend party rules should he return
Floyd Shivambu, who co-founded the EFF with Malema 11 years ago, announced his decision to leave the organisation on Thursday.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leaders Julius Malema (L) and Floyd Shivambu. Picture: Facebook/Economicfreedomstruggle
JOHANNESBURG - Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema said that the pain brought to him by his deputy's departure from the party was reminiscent of the anguish he endured following his mother's passing.
Floyd Shivambu, who co-founded the EFF with Malema 11 years ago, announced his decision to leave the organisation on Thursday.
He has now joined former President Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto weSizwe Party, which officially became the official opposition following the 29 May elections.
Malema has previously displayed an unconcerned attitude towards the departure of other important members of his party.
But his response to Shivambu's withdrawal from the party was starkly different, revealing he pleaded with him to reconsider his decision.
"When he sent me a letter yesterday, I felt the same pain when I received the news of the passing away of my mother because Floyd to me is not just a comrade, he’s a brother and he’ll remain a brother."
Malema said he was willing to bend the party's rules if Floyd decided to return.
"The constitution of the EFF does not allow people to resign and join other political parties and come back to the EFF. But I’ve made this offer to Floyd that the day he decided to come back, he’s more than welcome."
He, however, said the show had to go on with or without his right-hand man.