Staff Reporter
EFF founder member and MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has been barred from attending its upcoming national elective conference in December.
The move appears to be part of a wider strategy to curtail his participation in party activities.
According to a report from City Press on Sunday, the move stems from concerns within the leadership that Ndlozi might challenge for a top position despite publicly stating otherwise.
Insiders claim Ndlozi’s presence at the conference poses a “serious threat” to the leadership, with many branches still lobbying him to contest for the deputy presidency, a position left vacant by Floyd Shivambu, who recently defected to Jacob Zuma’s uMkhonto we Sizwe Party (MKP).
Rumors of Ndlozi’s suspension have intensified after his absence from key EFF meetings over the past two weeks, including a central command team gathering.
Party insiders suspect a deliberate effort to sideline him, though the EFF has not confirmed any disciplinary action.
“It’s clear he has been barred from attending the national people’s assembly,” a source said.
“We suspect he has been suspended, but the party is keeping it under wraps.”
The EFF’s much-anticipated conference is set to take place from December 13 to 15 at Nasrec, Johannesburg, where a new leadership will be elected.
Party leader Julius Malema has already retweeted posts endorsing other candidates, which insiders interpret as a sign that the outcomes may be predetermined.
Ndlozi’s silence following Shivambu’s departure has reportedly angered the EFF leadership.
Some party members accuse him of failing to denounce Shivambu’s move to the MKP.
Malema, in a recent address, called for those contemplating departure to leave immediately.
His remarks were perceived as a veiled jab at Ndlozi and his partner, activist Mmabatho Montsho, who liked Shivambu’s Instagram post referencing his departure.
“Look at those around him, and you’ll know where this leader stands,” Malema remarked.
Shivambu’s exit and the resignation of former national chairperson Dali Mpofu have shaken the EFF.
Malema, however, remains defiant, dismissing concerns about senior leaders leaving.
“We are not going anywhere under a criminal syndicate,” he said, referring to the MKP.
Amid rising tensions, Ndlozi’s future in the party remains uncertain.
Insiders believe he may be waiting for the conference to pass before making his next move.
INSIDE POLITICS
