Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema is set to address thousands of supporters today at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi, Durban, as part of the party’s National Youth Day rally. The event marks a strategic push by the EFF to regain lost ground in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) following a disappointing performance in the 2024 general elections.
Rebuilding Support After Electoral Setbacks
The EFF has faced significant challenges in KZN, where the newly formed uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party made substantial inroads during the 2024 polls, siphoning off much of the EFF’s traditional support base. In response, the party has restructured its provincial leadership, including appointing former provincial chairperson Vugane as the new provincial secretary.
EFF Secretary-General Marshall Dlamini, speaking to the SABC at the rally, emphasized the party’s commitment to rebuilding its structures.
“This is the home of the EFF. No one will ever move us out of this province,” Dlamini declared. “We lost some ground in 2024, but we are back. We are building branches correctly, ensuring we have strong representation in every ward.”
Focus on Youth Unemployment and Governance Failures
Malema’s address is expected to tackle pressing issues affecting South Africa’s youth, including rampant unemployment and the perceived failures of the current Government of National Unity (GNU).
“The GNU has given up on young people,” Dlamini stated. “The commander-in-chief [Malema] will speak on the need for decisive investment in youth, gender-based violence, and the collapse of infrastructure in KZN.”
The rally has drawn scores of supporters, including students from tertiary institutions such as the Durban University of Technology and Mangosuthu University of Technology, as well as local community members.
Rejecting Coalition Politics
Dlamini dismissed speculation about potential political realignments, particularly regarding recent interactions between Malema and ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula.
“They chose racists and whites to take them into the GNU,” Dlamini said, referring to the ANC’s coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA) and other parties. “We are focusing on building the EFF because only the EFF can resolve South Africa’s issues.”
A Broader Political Message
Malema’s speech is also expected to touch on international affairs, including the Israel-Iran conflict, U.S. politics under Donald Trump, and President Cyril Ramaphosa’s recent visit to the United States.
As the EFF seeks to reassert its influence in KZN, today’s rally serves as a critical test of its ability to mobilize support ahead of the 2026 local government elections. With the stadium filling rapidly, the party is banking on a strong turnout to signal its resurgence in the province.
