Disbarred advocate Malesela Teffo has officially joined ActionSA, marking the latest shift in a political journey that has previously included memberships in the PAC, the EFF, and the MK party. Teffo, who rose to public prominence during the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, stated that he joined the party as an ordinary member and is currently seeking to align himself with political leadership that opposes the ANC and President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Did You Know? Before his career in high-profile criminal law, Teffo secured a notable Constitutional Court victory in the labour case of GJ Baloyi v MEC for Welfare and Social Development in Limpopo, which resulted in his client’s reinstatement after a decade-long legal battle.
Why Teffo is shifting political alliances
Teffo’s move to ActionSA follows a series of departures from other political organizations. According to Teffo, he left the PAC because he believed the new leadership “sold their souls” to the Government of National Unity (GNU). His tenure with the EFF ended after he alleged that party leader Julius Malema made “nonsensical and reckless” remarks regarding his involvement in the Senzo Meyiwa case.
Teffo also reported that he joined the MK party while incarcerated, hoping for support against what he characterized as “harassment” from the ANC and the DA. He stated that he received no such protection, leading to his decision to seek a new political home. He credited an old acquaintance with persuading him to join ActionSA, citing his admiration for the determination of party leader Herman Mashaba.
What could happen next for the former advocate
While Teffo maintains he joined ActionSA as an ordinary citizen without expectations of special treatment, he has signaled an openness to taking on a formal role. He stated that if the party leadership identifies potential in him and offers a position to assist in the party’s growth, he would consider the offer. Furthermore, Teffo expressed a desire to continue his legal activism, specifically noting he would welcome the opportunity to represent the “poorest of the poor” or individuals appearing before the Madlanga Commission.
Expert Insight: The transition of high-profile, controversial figures into political parties often presents a balancing act for leadership. While Teffo’s background in litigation and his self-described passion for human rights could provide ActionSA with a specific, activist-oriented appeal, the party will have to weigh this against the public scrutiny associated with his ongoing legal matters and past affiliations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Malesela Teffo leave the PAC?
Teffo stated he left the PAC because he was disillusioned with the party’s current leadership, claiming they “sold their souls” to the GNU.
Is Teffo expecting a leadership position in ActionSA?
He claims to have joined as an ordinary member without expecting special treatment, but noted that he would consider a leadership role if the party offered one.
How does Teffo respond to concerns about his legal history?
Teffo dismissed the idea that his legal matters would be a burden, characterizing his past battles as a “worthy cause” fought for the human rights of the downtrodden.
How do you think political parties should weigh the public profiles of new members against their past legal controversies?