Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Marshall Mzingisi Dlamini |
| Date of Birth | 13 August 1977 |
| Place of Birth | uMzimkhulu, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in International Relations (Unisa) |
| Occupation | Businessman, Politician |
| Current Position | Secretary-General of the EFF |
| Political Party | Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) |
| Previous Political Involvement | African National Congress (ANC) |
| Parliamentary Service | Member of the National Assembly since 2015 |
| Children | Daughters: Okuhle and Sinazo Mbele |
| Notable Incident | Sentenced for assault and malicious damage in 2024 |
Biography
Early Life and Background
Marshall Mzingisi Dlamini was born on 13 August 1977 in the rural town of uMzimkhulu, located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Growing up in a region with deep cultural roots and significant historical significance, Dlamini’s early life experiences shaped his views on leadership, education, and community service.
Education and Thought Leadership
Dlamini firmly believes in the power of education as a tool for empowerment and leadership. He pursued higher education and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of South Africa (Unisa), a prominent institution known for its distance learning programs. This academic achievement underscores his commitment to lifelong learning and the development of thought leadership, which he views as essential for effective political engagement and social change.
Political Career
Early Involvement with the ANC
Before joining the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Dlamini was actively involved with the African National Congress (ANC) and its youth league. His connection with the ANC allowed him to build a strong foundation in politics, where he developed close ties with influential figures, including the league’s former Secretary-General, Sindiso Magaqa.
Joining the Economic Freedom Fighters
In July 2013, as the EFF was being established, Dlamini became one of its early members. He was present at the party’s launch at Uncle Tom’s Hall in Soweto, a moment that marked the beginning of a significant shift in South Africa’s political landscape. His dedication and leadership qualities were quickly recognized, leading to his election to the EFF’s Central Command Team, the party’s highest decision-making structure.
Parliamentary Career
Dlamini entered the South African Parliament in April 2015 after the expulsion of several EFF Members of Parliament. His tenure in the National Assembly has been marked by active participation in debates and a strong commitment to the EFF’s principles of economic freedom and social justice. He was re-elected for a second term in May 2019, further solidifying his role as a key player in the legislative process.
Rise to Secretary-General
In December 2019, during the EFF’s second leadership conference, Dlamini was elected unopposed as the party’s Secretary-General, a position of significant influence and responsibility. His election came after strong lobbying from supporters of EFF President Julius Malema, who saw Dlamini as the ideal successor to the outgoing Secretary-General, Godrich Gardee. As Secretary-General, Dlamini is responsible for the administration of the party and plays a crucial role in shaping its strategies and policies.
Notable Incident: 2024 Sentencing
Despite his many achievements, Dlamini’s political career has not been without controversy. In February 2019, following the State of the Nation Address, he was involved in a physical altercation with a member of the presidential security team, leading to charges of assault with the intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH) and malicious damage to property. On 28 June 2024, the Cape Town Priority Court sentenced him to 18 months of direct imprisonment, suspended for five years, for the assault charge. He was also fined R6000 for malicious damage to property.
Personal Life
Dlamini is a family man with two daughters, Okuhle and Sinazo Mbele. His personal life, though private, is an important aspect of his identity, balancing his demanding political career with his responsibilities as a father.
Legacy and Influence
Marshall Mzingisi Dlamini’s journey from the rural town of uMzimkhulu to the halls of South Africa’s Parliament is a testament to his resilience, commitment, and belief in the power of education and leadership. As the Secretary-General of the EFF, he continues to influence the direction of the party and South African politics at large. His legacy is one of dedication to the cause of economic freedom and the empowerment of the marginalized, making him a significant figure in the ongoing struggle for social justice in South Africa.