Julius Malema states, "Zuma is calling me back to join him in the battle, and I’m not afraid."

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema stated that he is not intimidated by former president and current leader of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party), Jacob Zuma, and expressed his readiness to confront him.

Malema shared these remarks during a podcast for the party, which was subsequently posted on their social media channels.

"This isn't the first time he's called me out for a fight, and I'm prepared to take him on without hesitation. I'm not afraid of Zuma or his supporters," he declared.

"There's no way someone can threaten the EFF's existence and expect to be treated as a friend— that would be false. People often betray you behind your back, then act friendly in public. No, I prefer they keep their distance,” he added.

Malema's comments followed the resignations of several high-ranking members who aligned themselves with Zuma’s MK Party.

Notable figures such as former EFF deputy leader Floyd Shivambu, former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane, and advocate Dali Mpofu left the EFF to join the MK Party.

The MK Party, which was launched less than a year ago, has quickly become the third-largest party.

During the podcast, Malema revealed that prior to the May 29, 2024 elections, he and other opposition parties were summoned to Zuma’s residence in Nkandla, KwaZulu-Natal, where the suggestion was made to dissolve the EFF and merge with the MK Party.

While Malema did not attend the meeting himself, he sent some senior members, including Dali, who proposed in the initial gathering that the EFF and other parties should disband and come together under Zuma’s leadership, according to Malema.