Power Struggles Erupt as EFFYC Splinters from Within
By Keyah Mbombo
The Economic Freedom Front Youth Command (EFFYC) is facing increasing internal tensions as rival factions within its leadership clash over succession plans which raises questions about the party’s ability to present a unified front ahead of upcoming elections.
According to sources, an Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held to elect the new EFFYC leadership in late February 2025. However, there was allegedly no verification of party members taken before the AGM was held. This led to what one faction is calling an “illegal leadership” taking office. In the early hours of the morning, an email was sent out notifying members of an AGM that would be held later the same day.
Some current EFF leadership members were apparently not informed and blindsided. The AGM was then reported to the EFF provincial office by EFF Student Representative Council (SRC) members. This allegedly resulted in the newly elected members receiving a letter instructing them to disband. According to insiders, the letter “has not been furnished,” so it is unknown if the newly elected EFFYC leadership are operating illegally or not. They have created new Instagram and TikTok accounts.
As the EFFYC at UCT continues to operate under two competing leadership structures, students and party supporters are left confused and divided. With this year’s SRC elections on the horizon and no clear resolution in sight, the question remains whether the organisation can reconcile its internal differences—or whether factionalism will cost it both credibility and cohesion.