EFF selects replacement for Mkhwebane in Parliament

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has allegedly chosen 26-year-old student leader Sihle Lonzi as the replacement for former public protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane in Parliament.

This is according to a report by the Mail & Guardian.

EFF STUDENT COMMAND PRESIDENT SIHLE LONZI SET TO REPLACE MKHWEBANE

Last Wednesday, Mkhwebane confirmed her resignation from the EFF which she had been a member of for 12 months.

She joined the Red Berets after she was impeached in September 2023. She became the first head of a Chapter 9 institution to be axed.

In her resignation letter, Mkhwebane said she wants to rest and spend time with her family. She also expressed her gratitude to the EFF and its members.

“In my time of need, you fighters extended a helping hand, becoming a refuge for me over the past 12 months. Your unwavering support has been a beacon of hope, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

“Now, it is time for me to focus on spending cherished moments with my family. Thank you for standing by me,” she said.

Her resignation followed that of prominent party members including co-founder Floyd Shivambu, Mzwanele Manyi, various provincial party leaders and most recently veteran actor Fana Mokoena.

MALEMA WANTS TO CONTINUE LEADING THE RED BERETS

Meanwhile, the EFF will hold its National People’s Assembly in December where the party will elect new leadership and review some of its policies.

Party leader Julius Malema said he is available to lead the party for a third term.

Notably, since the party was launched 11 years ago, Julius Malema and his former deputy Floyd Shivambu were the only two who retained their positions.

In an interview with the SABC in July, Malema said he is absolutely available to lead the party for the third term. He also acknowledged that it is up to the delegates whether he comes back from the conference as leader or not.