Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, one of the Economic Freedom Fighters’ (EFF) most recognisable and popular leaders, has resigned from Parliament, signalling a further spiralling for the party’s top leadership in the wake of defections to the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party.

The EFF confirmed on Thursday that Ndlozi and fellow MP Yazini Tetyana had submitted their resignations as MPs to EFF Secretary-General Marshall Dlamini.

While the two remain ordinary members of the party and haven’t said anything about joining former president Jacob Zuma’s MK Party, speculation is rife that they might. 

The MK Party disrupted SA politics in its first run at the national elections earlier this year, nabbing over 14% of the vote. Meanwhile, the 11-year-old EFF has struggled to grow beyond 10%.

Last year saw Malema’s one-time bestie Floyd Shivambu’s defect to Jacob Zuma’s MK party, followed by former EFF chairperson, Advocate Dali Mpofu. Party Leader Julius Malema has been in something of a spiral since, tweeting after Mpofu’s announcement: “Only two more of your favourites remain,” referencing those who “sing beautifully and are always willing to pose for pictures”, leaving some to wonder whether he was aiming at EFF MP Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, who often sings at party’s events. 

Still, the EFF’s statement this morning was almost poetic, praising both members for being “exemplary in their deployments” and wishing them well in their future endeavours.

Ndlozi, often dubbed the “People’s Bae” during his stint as the party’s spokesperson, has been a cornerstone of the EFF’s brand since the party’s formation in 2013. Known for his eloquence, sharp suits, and even sharper critiques of government policy, his absence at the EFF’s third elective conference in December raised eyebrows. Party leader Julius Malema had dismissed questions about Ndlozi’s future at the time, claiming it was a matter only Ndlozi could address. Well, now we have the answer.

Following the mass exodus of EFF members last year, Malema dismissed gossip about Ndlozi’s loyalty as “rubbish”. “You must not listen to gossip from drunkards. You ask us about the EFF leaders and we will tell you that Ndlozi is an active EFF member. He renewed his membership, he is part of the EFF membership system of the EFF,” Malema told journalists at the time. 

For his part, Ndlozi has maintained radio silence, even as Malema denied any discord. 

There has been speculation that Malema’s iron grip on the party and unwillingness to make way for new leaders has led to dissatisfaction among his former comrades. Shivambu has accused him of “betraying the revolution”. 

With the EFF losing ground in the 2024 elections and a growing list of high-profile departures, Ndlozi’s resignation comes at a pivotal moment for the party. Whether this signals a new chapter for the EFF or yet another nail in its red coffin remains to be seen.