MAMELODI, PRETORIA — Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has declared that his party is more resolute than ever in its mission to take control of local municipalities and govern independently following the 2026 local government elections.
Speaking while monitoring the first day of the voter registration weekend in Mamelodi, Malema outlined the party’s strategic vision for local governance. He emphasized that the EFF’s primary focus at the municipal level is on creating sustainable employment opportunities for the youth and empowering small, local businesses through targeted municipal procurement.
According to Malema, the party intends to keep municipal funds circulating within the community. He argued that money collected from residents for local services should be used to benefit the people of that specific municipality, rather than outsourcing services to entities outside the jurisdiction.
During his address, the EFF leader also issued a strong call to action, urging young citizens to participate in the democratic process. He encouraged them to visit their nearest registration stations or utilize the Independent Electoral Commission’s (IEC) online portal to ensure they are officially on the voters’ roll.
Navigating Coalitions and Political Relationships
When addressing the broader political landscape and the prospect of coalition governments, Malema dismissed the notion that the EFF has a difficult relationship with the African National Congress (ANC) or other political parties. He clarified that coalitions inherently require permanent consultation—a process he noted the EFF handles without issue.
“The ANC is the one that consistently has got a problem with consulting other parties,” Malema stated, adding that the ruling party will need to answer how they intend to move forward. He affirmed that in instances where the EFF does not outright govern a municipality, the party works collaboratively and effectively with all political formations.
A Pragmatic Approach to Basic Service Delivery
Malema stressed that the core of local government transcends political ideology, focusing instead on fundamental service delivery. He described local governance as being strictly about practical, everyday needs—specifically citing sanitation, water access, and infrastructure maintenance like potholes.
He argued that basic service delivery is a human rights issue that should never be withheld due to ideological differences. Questioning the logic of ideological blockades in local government, Malema asked why any administration would refuse a resident access to a toilet, a tap of water, or basic infrastructure simply because they ideologically differ.
By centering their municipal strategy on these non-ideological, basic human needs, the EFF aims to present itself as a capable, independent governing party ready to take direct control of local municipalities in 2026.