By Johnathan Paoli
The Economic Freedom Fighters has announced significant changes to its Parliamentary leadership and Whippery to reflect the outcomes of the party’s 3rd National People’s Assembly held in December.
EFF spokesperson Leigh-Anne Mathys said the changes, effective immediately, were part of the party’s strategy to strengthen its opposition role in Parliament and address vacancies resulting from recent resignations.
“The changes represent a combination of strong institutional memory both within the EFF and Parliament, youth, loyalty and service to the EFF, as well as vast educational and organisational experience,” Mathys said in a statement on Thursday.
She reaffirmed her party’s commitment to fighting for economic freedom and serving as a progressive voice in South African politics.
The party’s national chairperson, Nontando Nolutshungu, has been appointed as the new Chief Whip of the Parliamentary Caucus.
Nolutshungu will lead a team in the Whippery, including Omphile Maotwe, the EFF’s treasurer-general, Veronica Mente, Natasha Ntlangwini, Hlengiwe Mkhalipi and Sam Matisse.
Mandisa Makesini, will serve as the Whip in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).
In addition, she confirmed that three key appointments were made to the EFF’s caucus in the National Assembly.
Naledi Chirwa replaces Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, Nqobile Mhlongo replaces Ntokozo Hlonyane and Chumani Matiwane replaces Yazini Tetyana.
The spokesperson said these appointments would bolster the EFF’s presence and effectiveness in legislative debates and oversight responsibilities.
The EFF also announced changes to its representation in the NCOP, with Mampuru Mampuru replacing Naledi Chirwa and Asanda Matshobeni replacing Nolubabalo Mcinga.
Mathys expressed confidence that the new deployments would enhance the EFF’s ability to champion the needs of South Africans, particularly those living in poverty and facing systemic inequalities.
The party believes the realignment will strengthen its capacity to serve as a voice for marginalised communities and a robust critic of government policies that fail to address the country’s socio-economic challenges.
INSIDE POLITICS
