If he comes to Parliament, we'll meet in the chamber – Malema on Shivambu's new role

News24

2 days ago

Malema says the fuel levy court defeat is a loss for the public, not just the EFF, warning that rising fuel costs will worsen living conditions for ordinary South Africans.
He dismisses claims of political rivalry with Floyd Shivambu, asserting the EFF's dominance in Parliament and criticising attempts to undermine the party through unity narratives.
Malema acknowledges the retirement of Ekurhuleni city manager Imogen Mashazi, commending her leadership while clarifying there is no council resolution for extended benefits.
EFF leader Julius Malema has rejected the notion that the party's failed court challenge against the government's fuel levy increases was a political defeat, arguing instead that it represents a broader loss for ordinary South Africans.
Speaking to journalists after visiting the family of late actor Presley Chweneyagae on Wednesday, Malema said the Western Cape High Court's dismissal of the EFF's application to stop the levy hike meant that already burdened citizens would face increased costs across the board.
When they rejected the EFF application for the levy, it was not the EFF that got rejected; it is the people of South Africa who lost.
Julius Malema
He explained that increases in fuel levies would have a cascading effect on the economy, pushing up transport costs and subsequently the prices of essential goods such as bread and food delivered to schools and hospitals.
'Our people are already struggling. To put any further increase on the fuel levy is to burden them more. They cannot afford it,' he said.
Despite the court loss, Malema said the EFF had no regrets for pursuing the matter and insisted that the party, which holds about 9% of the seats in Parliament, would continue to represent the interests of the people '24 hours a day'.
Malema on Shivambu and the MK Party
Turning to political developments, Malema addressed questions about Floyd Shivambu's redeployment to Parliament.
Shivambu, formerly with the EFF, has been redeployed by the Umkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) to Parliament after being demoted from his position as secretary-general, after a trip to Malawi to visit controversial 'pastor' Shepherd Bushiri.
Malema downplayed the significance of Shivambu's new role, suggesting that Parliament was now under the influence of a younger generation of EFF-aligned MPs who would not be easily swayed.
'I don't work with Floyd – not in Parliament, not in football, nowhere,' said Malema.
If he comes to Parliament, we'll meet in the chamber. But he won't be able to undermine the superior logic of the EFF.
Julius Malema
He added that the MKP's presence in Parliament would not disrupt the EFF's work and emphasised his party's commitment to its parliamentary duties through well-researched and effective contributions.
On black political unity
Malema also addressed criticism regarding black political unity, responding to claims that the EFF had not shown a willingness to unite with other black-led parties.
'The EFF has always advocated black unity,' said Malema. 'But forming a new party and then calling for unity is disingenuous; that's already a division.'
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He criticised what he called a targeted narrative that only questioned the EFF's role in black unity, while ignoring other parties such as the UDM or Patriotic Alliance (PA), which were not held to the same standard.
'This is not about unity. It's an agenda to destroy the EFF,' Malema asserted.
On developments regarding Imogen Mashazi
Malema also weighed in on the recent developments involving Ekurhuleni city manager Imogen Mashazi, whose contract is set to expire in August. A request for her to go on special leave has reportedly been made to allow the council to begin appointing her successor.
He clarified that the request for leave was expected and not controversial, comparing it to similar practices followed by high-ranking public officials nearing retirement, such as former Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng when his term was coming to an end.
'She has been a good leader,' said Malema. 'We will miss her. She led from the front and was instrumental in achieving clean audits and delivering services.'
While questions have been raised about whether Mashazi is owed compensation for her remaining term, Malema said he was unaware of any council resolution regarding an extension or special retirement package.
'There is no special package in retirement. You retire with your savings and benefits,' he explained.
He concluded by noting that the EFF was actively involved in governance in Ekurhuleni and would continue to engage in municipal processes, particularly through the mayoral committee.
Malema reiterated that the EFF remained committed to its role in Parliament. He highlighted the party's focus on rigorous preparation and meaningful contributions in parliamentary debates and oversight.
'The EFF will continue to play a meaningful role in Parliament. Nothing has changed,' Malema said.