Former Economic Freedom Fighters’ Spokesperson and Member of Parliament Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has never been one to shy away from the mic. Whether he was delivering a speech in parliament or locking horns with political opponents, he knew how to command attention. Once known as ‘the people’s bae’ (a title many still hold onto), Ndlozi has swapped his red beret for a pair of headphones as he embarks on a new journey with radio.

Ndlozi is the latest voice to join Power FM as the host of POWER Talk, stepping into the shoes of well-known broadcaster Lerato Mbele. His first show yesterday was a warm introduction, drawing support from listeners, fellow broadcasters, and radio veterans. From the moment Ndlozi opened the mic, he made it clear that his foray into radio was not just another career move following his acrimonious exit from the EFF, which has been haemorrhaging leaders. Rather, it was a new platform for meaningful engagement. “I am here to facilitate, co-ordinate and frame a conversation, frame a talk. Talk is the basis of which our country opened a new journey 30 years ago. Talking across boundaries, across class lines, across racial lines, across religious, ideological and cultural lines, talk is important,” he said. 

This step away from party politics to a more neutral commentary space may be a better fit for Ndlozi, who has an extensive background in academia — he obtained his PhD in Political Sociology at Witwatersrand University in 2017. 

If there were any first-day jitters, they were quickly drowned out by an outpouring of love from colleagues and industry legends. Thabo “Tbo Touch” from Metro FM made a surprise visit to the studio to offer words of encouragement and even prayed for Ndlozi on air.

Sports broadcaster Robert Marawa called in, saying: “What you brought into the parliamentary building was new energy and engaging intellect, that’s what’s needed”. He was referencing Ndlozi’s time as a prominent parliamentarian for the EFF — for approximately 10 years he was a Member of Parliament for the EFF from 2014 until he stepped down in January 2025. During his time in the party, he made history as the EFF’s first official spokesperson, a role he held until 2020. While the EFF often ran foul of parliamentary rules and landed in hot water for their radical views, leaders like Ndlozi and even Floyd Shivambu were still widely respected for their intellect and academic grounding. (Shivambu, former EFF deputy president, was probably the most high-profile departure, leaving the EFF and an angry party leader Julius Malema for Jacob Zuma’s MK Party in August 2024, where he now serves as the secretary general .)

Back to the show, Aldrin Sampear, a popular current affairs broadcaster and former POWER Talk host, also joined in: “Once upon a time, we were on that seat, and I know you are going to kill it. All the best!”

Adding to the line-up of well-wishers, radio legend Thuso Motaung, media icon Shado Twala, and radio personality Linda Sibiya joined Ndlozi in the studio and shared pearls of wisdom to prepare him for his journey behind the mic. Twala said: “I am so excited to have you on the airwaves. I think you have found your new purpose.” Listeners also flooded Power FM lines with voice notes and phone calls expressing their excitement. Many said they were eager for the conversations Ndlozi would bring to the table, promising to contribute and engage in what they hope will be dynamic and insightful conversations.

Ndlozi’s partner, director and screenwriter Mmabatho Montsho, took to X to send her well wishes: “a blessed and God-filled first and every day of your Power Talk journey.”

Overwhelmed by the love, Ndlozi later posted: “Thank you deeply for the warm welcome to #PowerTalk. Thanks for the love and encouragement. Let us travel together moving forward. The first day was just perfect because of you. To you, I say power!

Throughout his political career, Ndlozi was no stranger to controversy, his alleged involvement in the assault of a police officer at Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s funeral and his defense of EFF members during the Clicks protests, which drew criticism from media and gender rights groups. Recently his absence from the EFF’s third elective conference in 2024 and his resignation as an MP this year only fueled speculation about his political future.

But now, with a microphone, Ndlozi steps into a space where he can be more considered in his views, unhindered by party politics. As he navigates this new chapter on POWER Talk, he has the chance to shape conversations with depth, insight, and a fresh perspective.

lona@explain.co.za |  + posts

Lona is a recent graduate with an Honours degree in Journalism and Media Studies from Wits University. Passionate about storytelling, she is eager to learn, grow, and hone her writing skills.