The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) is a significant political force in South Africa, known for its radical and leftist stance. Formed in 2013 by former African National Congress (ANC) member Julius Malema, the EFF has quickly become a prominent voice in South African politics. Here’s what you need to know about this dynamic political party.
Origins and Formation
- Founding: The EFF was founded on July 26, 2013, by Julius Malema and other disillusioned former members of the ANC.
- Julius Malema: Malema, a former ANC Youth League President, became the leader of the EFF after his expulsion from the ANC in 2012.
- Political Stance: The EFF identifies as a “radical, leftist, anti-capitalist, and anti-imperialist movement.”
- Economic Emancipation: The party’s primary focus is on achieving economic emancipation for the marginalized and poor in South Africa.
- Influence of the ANC: The EFF’s platform includes many of the controversial ideas Malema advocated while in the ANC, such as the nationalization of key industries.
Key Policies and Ideologies
- Nationalization: The EFF advocates for the nationalization of mines, banks, and other strategic sectors of the economy.
- Land Expropriation: The party supports the expropriation of land without compensation, aiming to redistribute land to the disenfranchised majority.
- Education: The EFF calls for free and quality education for all, emphasizing the need for equal access to learning opportunities.
- Healthcare: The party’s manifesto includes plans to improve healthcare services and ensure access to quality health care for all citizens.
- Anti-Corruption: The EFF strongly opposes corruption and has been vocal in its criticism of corrupt practices within the government and private sectors.
Early Success and Growth
- 2014 Elections: In its first election in 2014, the EFF won about 6% of the national vote, securing 25 seats in the National Assembly.
- Provincial Representation: The party gained a presence in every provincial legislature, marking a significant debut on the political stage.
- Support Base: The EFF quickly garnered support among young adults, the poor, and the unemployed, resonating with those disillusioned by the ANC.
- Rising Popularity: By the 2019 elections, the EFF’s support grew to almost 11% of the national vote, increasing its seats in the National Assembly to 44.
- Official Opposition: The EFF became the official opposition party in three of South Africa’s nine provinces after the 2019 elections.
Challenges and Recent Developments
- 2024 Elections: In the 2024 elections, the EFF’s national vote share slightly declined to just under 10%.
- Competition: The emergence of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MK Party) is believed to have drawn some support away from the EFF.
- Coalition Politics: The ANC’s declining support in 2024 has led to discussions about potential coalitions, with Malema expressing willingness for the EFF to be part of a governing coalition with the ANC.
- Policy Impact: The EFF’s policies and rhetoric have had a considerable impact on the national debate, particularly around issues of land reform and economic justice.
- Future Prospects: Despite the slight decline in 2024, the EFF remains a formidable political force with a dedicated following and a clear ideological vision.
