EFF Gauteng provincial chairperson Nkululeko Dunga, has described the departure of key members - including former deputy president Floyd Shivambu, to join uMkhonto weSizwe (MKP) party as “selfish ambition over the collective liberation.”
Dunga admitted that the exit of prominent members was a big challenge to the party.
He stressed the need to acknowledge the hardships faced by the party this year, especially the loss of notable members, many of whom joined Jacob Zuma’s MK Party.
The departure of prominent figures such as Shivambu, who was a close friend of EFF president Julius Malema, has left a huge gap in the party.
This comes as the red berets are hosting its third elective conference, dubbed the National People’s Assembly (NPA) at the Nasrec Expo Centre, which kicked off yesterday.
For the first time, after 10 years of the party’s inception, the conference will elect new leaders without Shivambu.
The wave of resignations within the EFF has been attributed to the party’s non-contribution in governance, known for its controversial stance on racial and racism remarks, disruptive behaviour in Parliament, including its remarks on foreign nationals.
In his opening remarks and welcoming the delegates,, Dunga admitted the resignation of members its a setback and an ongoing challenge for the party.
He described the departure of members as a constant reminder of the obstacles the party endured since its revolutionary journey.
“We must acknowledge that the EFF has faced challenges,” Dunga said.
“The recent departure of leaders who prioritized selfish ambition over the collective liberation of our people serves as a reminder of the obstacles we face.”
“We say this because some of them even come from this province (Gauteng),” Dunga added.
Dunga stressed that it is important to remember that betrayal is not the end of the revolution, but instead serves as a test of resilience and perseverance.
He called on the conference to address the challenges encountered by the party, including the wave of departures by prominent figures.
“This assembly provides us with an opportunity to recalibrate and correct past mistakes that have even happened yet in this particular venue, comrade President. To guard against opportunistic and disloyal tendencies and to elevate hard work, humility, and loyalty,” Dunga told hundreds of delegates.
Despite the difficulties within the party, Dunga, expressed his gratitude to the Central Command Team, elected at the second NPA held at the very same venue, five years ago and lauded Malema’s leadership.
“We thank the Central Command Team Collective elected at the second NPA held at this venue five years ago, comrade president (referring to Malema) for the stewardship of this movement under your decisive, under your (Malema) fearless and exemplary leadership,” he said.
Dunga further acknowledged the challenges faced by the party, stating “Because of your fearlessness, the EFF has survived the onslaught and we are here today.”
Meanwhile, Malema is expected to address the delegates highlighting the significance of the conference and its strategic priorities.
IOL Politics