In a surprising turn of events, Collen Malatji, the recently elected president of the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL), has publicly called for the return of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema to the ANC fold.
Malatji’s comments come at a time of significant turmoil within the EFF, marked by high-profile departures and internal strife.
A “Harsh” Expulsion Reconsidered
Speaking in an interview with MDN TV, Malatji characterized Malema’s expulsion from the ANC as “reckless” and “too harsh.”
He emphasized Malema’s deep roots within the ANC, stating, “He is the product of the Youth League, COSAS. Even how he walks, speaks, is ANC politics”.
This statement underscores the ANCYL’s view that Malema’s political identity remains intrinsically tied to the ANC, despite his years leading the EFF.
The Floyd Shivambu Factor
Malatji didn’t mince words when discussing the role of Floyd Shivambu in Malema’s departure from the ANC.
He asserted that Shivambu, who “never loved the ANC,” misled Malema into forming the EFF.
The ANCYL president’s comments reflect a belief that Malema’s decision to leave was influenced by external factors rather than a genuine ideological shift.
EFF’s Internal Challenges
The timing of Malatji’s invitation is noteworthy, coming amidst reports of significant upheaval within the EFF.
Several prominent members, including Floyd Shivambu, Dali Mpofu, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, and Jimmy Manyi, have recently defected to the MK Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma.
These departures have fueled speculation about the EFF’s internal stability and long-term viability.
The Zuma Factor
Malatji’s comments also touched on the complex relationship between Malema and former president Jacob Zuma.
He warned that Zuma, whom he described as unforgiving, could potentially “destroy” Malema and the EFF.
“Zuma is not a forgiving person,” Malatji cautioned.
“He is going to destroy him because he is doing everything in his power to destroy him because he is settling scores”.
A Call for Reconciliation
The ANCYL president’s statements can be seen as both a critique of Malema’s past decisions and an invitation for reconciliation.
Malatji suggested that returning to the ANC could provide Malema with the support needed to navigate the current political landscape, metaphorically offering “poison to kill the snake” that threatens the EFF.
Looking Ahead
As the EFF prepares for its upcoming elective conference, Malatji’s comments add another layer of complexity to South Africa’s political dynamics.
Whether this olive branch from the ANCYL will lead to any significant shifts in allegiances remains to be seen, but it certainly sets the stage for an intriguing period in South African politics.
The ball is now in Malema’s court. Will he consider a return to his political roots, or will he continue to chart an independent course with the EFF?
Only time will tell how this latest chapter in South African political drama unfolds.