The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in KwaZulu-Natal has slammed Ngizwe Mchunu for declaring that the party’s Commander-in-Chief, Julius Malema, is “no longer welcome” in the province. The party described Mchunu’s remarks as unsubstantiated, inflammatory, and politically irresponsible.
The party said no individual can declare the province a “No Go Area” for the party or its leadership.
”There is no Ngizwe who will declare KZN a No Go Area for the CIC and the EFF in KZN.”
The EFF condemned Mchunu’s comments as part of a recurring pattern, noting that during previous election cycles, including in 2024, he engaged in similar conduct targeting the EFF with claims that were never substantiated.
This comes after Mchunu said Malema is no longer welcome in KwaZulu-Natal, and that he had insulted KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, as well as himself, the late King Goodwill Zwelithini, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, and undermined former president Jacob Zuma.
He also claimed that former EFF deputy president Floyd Shivambu had informed him that Malema and his associates were allegedly involved in looting funds within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, further alleging — without providing evidence — that more than R10 million is being fraudulently claimed each month within the municipality’s security department
The EFF said it was particularly disturbed by assertions suggesting that Malema is “not welcome” in KwaZulu-Natal.
“KwaZulu-Natal, like all provinces of South Africa, belongs to its people and remains a democratic space where political leaders are free to engage communities without fear, intimidation, or exclusion,” the party said.
It added that such statements risk inciting unnecessary tension and undermining the values of openness and political tolerance.
“We will not take kindly to those threats, and we shall act decisively, especially in a province filled with political violence.”
The party called on Mchunu to act responsibly and present any credible evidence to the relevant authorities.
“Allegations of this magnitude cannot be tried in the court of public opinion without substantiation. If there is truth to his claims, due process must be followed.
”If not, he must refrain from making statements that have the potential to damage reputations and destabilise public confidence,” the party said.
The EFF also added that Mchunu “remains a charlatan paid for by those who seek to destroy the EFF.”
The party assured its members and supporters that it remains committed to ethical leadership, transparency, and accountability, saying it will continue to defend its leadership through lawful and decisive means, guided by “the principles of justice and truth.”
The EFF also stressed that it will not be intimidated or distracted by statements aimed at diverting attention from pressing issues, including unemployment, inequality, and poverty.
“Our focus remains on building a just and equitable society for all.”
hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za
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