The political landscape in South Africa has been marred by a heated feud between two prominent figures – EFF boss Julius Malema and ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula. What was once a friendship has now turned into a bitter rivalry, with tensions reaching new heights.
The recent encounter between Malema and Mbalula at the funeral of IFP lifetime president Mangosuthu Buthelezi in Ulundi showcased the extent of their animosity. Malema revealed in an interview with Sunday World Engage that the tension between them has escalated to a point of no return.
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During the funeral, Mbalula displayed reluctance in greeting Malema and even contemplated snubbing former ANC President Jacob Zuma until Malema intervened. This incident further fueled the ongoing political war between the two, which began when Mbalula assumed the role of ANC’s secretary-general.
Malema, however, remains unfazed by Mbalula’s dislike towards him, as long as it doesn’t hinder his political ambitions. He sees Mbalula’s behaviour as a power trip that will eventually fade away. Malema shared his experience at the funeral, stating, ‘He came greeting everybody and when it was time to come greet me, he hesitated…we have reached the real point of disliking each other, and I do not care about him, he can go jump.’
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Malema also revealed that it was he who urged Mbalula to greet Jacob Zuma at the funeral, highlighting Mbalula’s personal nature and his belief that power is infinite. The tension between the two has been building up since many predicted that Mbalula would be a formidable opponent for Malema and his party, the EFF.
Looking ahead to the 2024 national and provincial elections, Malema asserts that the EFF is prepared to confront Mbalula head-on. The political battle between the two will undoubtedly shape the future of South African politics and have far-reaching consequences for both parties.
