Activist Tumi Sole’s political U-turn may not see him ‘return to the EFF’

Legal practitioner and popular social activist Tumi Sole has ditched his political ambitions through ActionSA and is heading back to familiar pastures.

But the EFF have seemingly made it clear that there will be no reported “loveback” if he comes calling.

It was only in May thatSole was put forward by ActionSA as its candidate for MMC of Development Planning in Johannesburg.

Three months later, the founder of social movement #CountryDuty has u-turned on the decision.

“After a brief but truly rewarding chapter in official politics, I have decided to step back from active political life. Campaigning for the people of Johannesburg has meant more to me than words can capture, and I carry every lesson from that journey with real gratitude.

“To ActionSA, thank you for the opportunity and the trust you placed in me.”

He said he will now focus on #CountryDuty and his legal and corporate work, where he believes he can “keep making a meaningful difference in the lives of South Africans.”

“This is not a goodbye to public service. It is simply a redirection of it, toward where I believe I can do the most good. My commitment to accountability, good governance, and a better South Africa has not changed one bit,” he added.

Mashaba speaks

ActionSA president Herman Mashaba thanked Sole for his short service.

“Thanks so much, Tumi, for making yourself available to directly serve the country when I invited you to do so. I saw massive potential in you, and still do.

“I fully understand your current position, and will never give up on engaging you in the future. For now, I am comfortable giving you the space.

“You still have a lot to offer our beloved country. All of the best with your endeavours,” he said.

An EFF move?

While the door might still be open at ActionSA, Sole may not find the carpet rolled out at Winnie Madikizela-Mandela House.

Sole has previously been linked with the EFF and promoted the party on social media, and an image of him with EFF Parliament Media Liaison Officer Andiswa Madikazi, along with her comments on his move, saw speculation swirl again.

Madikazi said the party “has no dustbin for human beings” and “we can’t crucify people for human errors. There is nothing that a decision of the highest structure can’t fix.”

However, some online were quick to cite a rule in the party’s constitution stating that no one can return once departed. Their observation and comments on Sole were shared by EFF leader Julius Malema.

Madikazi stood firm, saying “the decision of the higher structure can resolve on the matter. Officials can take a decision.”

Tumi has not commented further on this or any other move.