The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have retained Ward 13 in Polokwane, the home ward of party leader Julius Malema, in a recent by-election, defeating both the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP). EFF candidate Mongatane Ramaphoko secured a 57.34% majority, while the ANC came in second with just over 40%. This victory reaffirms the community’s trust in the EFF and Malema’s leadership, as Malema personally campaigned in his hometown of Seshego for Ramaphoko[5].
Malema has also been vocal on national issues, recently threatening to take President Cyril Ramaphosa to the Constitutional Court to declare him a constitutional delinquent, underlining ongoing tensions between the EFF and the ruling ANC[7].
Internationally, Malema made headlines in June when the United Kingdom barred him from entry, citing his controversial rhetoric and public support for Hamas following the group’s deadly attacks on Israel in October the previous year. The UK Home Office determined his views were not conducive to the public good, specifically referencing past inflammatory remarks by Malema. The EFF condemned the move as a political attempt to silence dissent. This marks at least the second time in two months Malema has been refused entry to the UK, with the latest decision being final and not subject to appeal[1].
Malema continues to engage in high-profile media engagements and party events, including interviews on national TV and public addresses at local rallies, maintaining a significant presence in South African and international political discussions[4][3].
References
- [1] UK bans South Africa’s Julius Malema over Hamas support … – Africanews
- [3] President Julius Malema To Address Seshego Ward 13 … – YouTube
- [4] In conversation with Economic Freedom Fighters – YouTube
- [5] EFF retains Malema’s home ward in Polokwane, defeats ANC and SACP in by-election – IOL Politics
- [7] Malema: We’ll take Ramaphosa to court! – YouTube