Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read
15 December 2024 | 16:54 CAT

EFF leader Julius Malema addresses delegates at the party’s 3rd National People’s Assembly in Johannesburg, tackling internal divisions and charting the party’s future amid leadership changes. PHOTO: X @EFFSouthAfrica

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) held their third National People’s Assembly at the Nasrec Centre in Johannesburg, an event marked by notable internal challenges and leadership uncertainty. The assembly saw delegates electing a new leadership, with a backdrop of diminishing support and internal divisions.

In his address, EFF leader Julius Malema reflected on the party’s trajectory, particularly the challenges faced following the May 2024 elections. In an interview with Radio Islam International, Political analyst Nqapheli Mchunu described Malema’s speech as “sober and sombre,” highlighting how the EFF, traditionally known for keeping political opponents on the defensive, found itself grappling with internal turmoil.

Malema attributed the party’s poor electoral performance to sabotage and infiltration, citing significant defections, including the departure of senior leaders to the newly formed MK party. The EFF’s decline in KwaZulu-Natal, where its support plummeted from 9% in 2019 to 2% in 2024, further underscored the party’s struggles.

Mchunu pointed out that while Malema blamed external factors such as the media and rival parties, he offered limited self-reflection on internal shortcomings. “One would have expected more critical analysis of the party’s internal dynamics,” said Mchunu. Instead, Malema criticized media outlets for their perceived bias, accusing them of advancing agendas that undermined the EFF’s ideas.

The EFF’s evolving relationship with the media was also scrutinized. Once a tool for promoting the party’s vision, the media had reportedly become a platform for dissent within the ranks. According to Mchunu, the party’s reliance on media for publicity appeared to backfire as members began using it to voice internal grievances.

The assembly raised questions about the EFF’s future. Mchunu noted that the challenges faced by the EFF mirrored those experienced by other South African political parties as they matured. “Internal disagreements and leadership disputes are inevitable as parties grow,” he explained.

Looking ahead, the newly elected leaders face the formidable task of navigating these internal challenges while preparing for the 2026 local government elections. The coming years will test the EFF’s ability to maintain unity and adapt to its evolving role in South Africa’s political landscape.

Listen to the full interview on Radio Islam’s podcast with Moulana Habib Bobat and Political analyst Nqapheli Mchunu here.