Cape Town – EFF national chairperson Veronica Mente has denied rumours of her leaving the party, following speculation sparked by Floyd Shivambu’s departure.
Shivambu, who was the deputy president of EFF, announced his resignation from the party during a press briefing at the EFF headquarters in Johannesburg last week.
He read his resignation letter and announced that he would be joining the MK Party.
His departure has fueled rumours of potential internal discord within the EFF, with some suggesting that it reflects deeper issues within the party, especially following their underwhelming performance in the 2024 elections.
Speculation has grown around whether his move is an isolated decision or part of a broader shift that could involve other senior members.
Mente, on Tuesday, reaffirmed her commitment to the EFF, confirming her membership renewal on July 17.
Speaking to Metro FM, she also dismissed concerns about a party crisis following the 2024 election results and Shivambu’s move to the MK Party, insisting the EFF is stable and here to stay.
“The EFF is going nowhere. The EFF is here to stay.
“People are using this moment to try and create a crisis moment. There is no crisis,” Mente said.
She was noncommittal about running for the deputy president position in the upcoming National People’s Assembly in December, focusing instead on the party’s resilience and future.
According to Times Live, Mente also firmly stated her commitment to the party.
The report said that allegations surfaced that Shivambu’s exit was linked to a fallout with party leader Julius Malema over the government’s national unity talks and offers from ANC negotiators.
Sources claimed Malema blocked Shivambu’s potential role as deputy finance minister and instead considered Mente for the deputy speaker position, which she reportedly did not get due to the ANC’s rejection.
“I am a member of the EFF in good standing having renewed my membership on July 17. The EFF is the only political home I have, and will remain one even if I am the last member remaining,” the report quoted her as saying.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
