By Simon Nare
EFF leader Julius Malema has issued a stern warning to journalists while refusing to address questions about Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s absence from the party’s elective conference, which began on Friday.
Addressing reporters on Saturday, Malema criticised the media for focusing on Ndlozi instead of the party’s comprehensive political report.
He instructed party members not to address questions about Ndlozi and accused Sunday World of spreading gossip, alleging a link between the paper’s owner and Ndlozi.
“We will not answer questions about Mbuyiseni Ndlozi. You have his number; call him. Some of you are already speaking to him. This organization will not be reduced to one individual,” said Malema.
“We presented an 80-page political report, but your intellectual capacity is so inferior you cannot even engage with it. Instead, you focus on one person, as if his absence defines the conference. The conference is proceeding without him, and we will not entertain such nonsense.”
“This is about political issues, not egoism or individuals who think they are bigger than the organization. The organization will prove it is bigger than any one person.”
Malema declared the matter of Ndlozi closed, dismissing it as no longer up for discussion.
Speculation has grown since the departure of former deputy president Floyd Shivambu, with rumors suggesting Ndlozi may join Shivambu in the MK Party.
Ndlozi’s absence from the conference has fueled talk that his political career with the EFF might be over.
Attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful.
The conference entered its second day on Saturday, with nominations expected to take place.
It remains unclear whether Malema will face any challengers for the top position.
Secretary-General Marshal Dlamini revealed that over 2,400 voting delegates are attending the conference.
Dlamini, who is widely seen as Malema’s preferred candidate for deputy president, is tipped to win the position.
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