JOHANNESBURG – Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema revealed his struggles growing up without a father and addressed recent party defections during an intimate interview on the Hustle Corner Podcast.

Speaking at the EFF’s Winnie Madikizela-Mandela headquarters, Malema discussed his transition from ANC Youth League president to EFF leader, which occurred after his expulsion for comparing the leadership styles of former presidents Thabo Mbeki and Jacob Zuma.

“We were expelled because we said Mbeki was a better leader than Zuma,” Malema explained, detailing how suppressed appeals led to the EFF’s formation with Floyd Shivambu.

Malema dismissed rumors about Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi’s alleged ban from the party, stating “Ndlozi has no plans to join MK, and he has not renewed his membership with any other party.”

The EFF leader expressed betrayal over recent party defections to the MK party, comparing it to Thomas Sankara’s betrayal by Blaise Compaoré. “These people were like brothers to me. I cannot tell the story of the EFF without mentioning them,” he said.

Regarding his personal life, Malema spoke proudly of fathering three sons while acknowledging his own father’s absence. “I am proud that I am a responsible father, both to my children and to the members of the EFF,” he said.