Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, EFF, South Africa, Civil Society, Politics, Resignation
In a move that has sent shockwaves through South Africa’s political landscape, Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has formally severed ties with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). He was the firebrand former spokesperson of the party. This move ends a decade-long tenure marked by impassioned rhetoric and ideological fervour. His resignation was confirmed in a televised SABC interview on Monday. It not only marks a personal departure. It also signifies a seismic shift in the trajectory of one of South Africa’s most vocal opposition movements.
Ndlozi’s exit follows months of speculation about his strained relationship with EFF leadership. The speculation culminated in an “unconventional” suspension six weeks before the party’s December elective conference. Allegations suggested he colluded with Jacob Zuma’s MK Party. He vehemently denies this claim.
These allegations cast a shadow over his final days in the red berets. Ndlozi declared, “I do not work with a dark cloud over my head.” He framed his resignation as a bid to reclaim his voice beyond the confines of partisan politics.
The Unravelling: Suspension and Allegations
Ndlozi’s suspension was described as procedurally irregular by the former MP. The suspension stemmed from accusations. He allegedly neglected to alert EFF leadership about former deputy president Floyd Shivambu’s defection to the MK Party. Ndlozi admitted he knew about Shivambu’s plans. Yet he insisted it was not his role to “play informant” to the party’s upper echelons. “It was Floyd’s decision to communicate,” he asserted, dismissing claims of conspiracy as “lies” engineered to tarnish his legacy.
Liberation is about the people. It is not about party loyalty.
The suspension barred him from parliamentary duties. It also excluded him from the EFF’s National People’s Assembly. He labelled the move “unjust” and said it was detached from the party’s own code of conduct. Critics argue the episode highlights significant divisions within the EFF. The party has experienced a steady exodus of high-profile figures in recent years, including Shivambu and former chairman Dali Mpofu.
From Parliament to People: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s New Mission
Ndlozi’s post-EFF blueprint pivots on two pillars: academia and civil society. He holds a PhD in Sociology. He plans to leverage his academic pedigree to elevate public discourse. He aims to champion grassroots advocacy. “The terrain of struggle has been neglected. It’s time to agitate for freedom through community-driven liberation,” he proclaimed. He invoked the work of AfriForum as a model for mobilising marginalised voices.
His vision mirrors a growing disillusionment with party politics among South Africa’s youth. They increasingly view civil society as a more authentic arena for social change. “Liberation is about the people. It is not about party loyalty,” Ndlozi emphasised. This signals a strategic shift toward initiatives that prioritise research, advocacy, and localised development. These initiatives take precedence over parliamentary grandstanding.
The EFF’s Crossroads: Leadership and Legacy
The EFF’s terse acknowledgement of Ndlozi’s resignation thanks him for his “exemplary service.” It sidesteps the controversy. This response hints at the party’s precarious balancing act. The EFF was once a magnetic force for radical economic transformation. Now, it grapples with internal discord. There is also a perceived erosion of its founding principles. Political analyst Thandeka Mkhize notes, “Ndlozi’s departure is symbolic. He embodied the intellectual rigour and charisma that drew young idealists to the EFF. Without figures like him, the party risks becoming a hollow echo of its former self.”
The future of struggle lies beyond Parliament’s gates.
The MK Party’s alleged infiltration tactics further complicate the narrative. Ndlozi denies ties to Zuma’s faction. Yet, his suspension underscores the EFF’s mounting paranoia about external threats. This sentiment risks alienating its remaining base.
Civil Society: A Battlefield Reclaimed
Ndlozi’s pledge to emulate AfriForum—a group often criticised for its conservative Afrikaner advocacy—raises eyebrows but also highlights a strategic calculus. By channelling AfriForum’s legal and community mobilisation tactics, he aims to empower disenfranchised communities sidelined by mainstream politics. “Why should Afrikaners monopolise effective civil society organising?” he challenged, framing his mission as a counterweight to identity-based fragmentation.
Academics like Professor Sipho Dlamini argue that Ndlozi’s pivot will redefine South Africa’s civil society landscape. “He’s bridging the gap between academic theory and grassroots praxis. If successful, this will inspire a new wave of activist-scholars,” Dlamini observed.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
Ndlozi’s journey will not be without hurdles. Civil society spaces in South Africa are often underfunded and politically weaponised, with groups like AfriForum facing accusations of divisiveness. Yet, his academic qualifications and media savvy position him uniquely to navigate these pitfalls. “This is not about replacing one ideology with another,” he insists. “It’s about equipping people to liberate themselves.”
As for the EFF, the party faces a reckoning. Its charismatic voices are dwindling. Its internal cohesion is fraying. The red berets must decide whether to double down on militant rhetoric or recalibrate toward inclusive dialogue. For Ndlozi, though, the path is clear: “The future of struggle lies beyond Parliament’s gates.”
FAQ’s: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi Resignation
Why did Mbuyiseni Ndlozi resign from the EFF?
Mbuyiseni Ndlozi resigned from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). He was suspended over allegations of collusion with the MK Party. Ndlozi denies these allegations. He wanted to focus on academia and civil society. He stated that he no longer functions under the “dark cloud” of suspicion within the party.
What were the allegations against Ndlozi?
Ndlozi was accused of failing to inform EFF leadership about Floyd Shivambu’s alleged defection to the MK Party. He denied these claims. He stated that it was not his responsibility to act as an “informant.” He also claimed that the allegations were politically motivated.
What will Ndlozi do after leaving the EFF?
Ndlozi plans to shift his focus to academia and civil society. He will leverage his PhD in Sociology to engage in research, advocacy, and grassroots community organising. He aims to empower marginalised communities and bridge the gap between academic theory and practical activism.
How has the EFF responded to Ndlozi’s resignation?
The EFF issued a brief statement. They thanked Ndlozi for his “exemplary service.” But, they did not tackle the controversy surrounding his suspension or resignation. The party has faced criticism for its handling of internal disputes and the departure of high-profile members like Ndlozi.
Ndlozi can join another political party?
Ndlozi has not indicated any plans to join another political party. He has emphasised his commitment to civil society and academia. He stated that his focus will be on community-driven liberation. He prefers this approach to partisan politics.
