Julius Malema is one of the most visible and talked-about figures in South African politics. He leads the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a party known for pushing radical economic change, including land expropriation without compensation and the nationalisation of key industries. Whether you agree with him or not, his speeches and moves shape debates on inequality, race, and the economy in South Africa.
Expect strong, direct language from Malema. He built his profile as a young, combative activist in the ANC Youth League before launching the EFF in 2013. Since then, the EFF has become a major player in national and local politics, often holding the balance of power in hung councils and forcing larger parties to negotiate. That makes Malema important during elections, coalition talks, and budget battles.
First, he sets the public agenda on big economic questions. Calls for land reform, higher taxes on the wealthy, and state control of resources push other parties to respond or risk losing voters. Second, he helps mobilise younger, working-class voters who feel left behind by slow economic change. Third, Malema’s willingness to form tactical alliances means he can influence who governs at national and municipal levels.
He also provokes strong reactions. That keeps him in the headlines and forces media, civil society, and businesses to address the issues he raises. At the same time, he has faced legal and disciplinary challenges over the years. Those fights are part of the story and affect how people see his credibility and power.
Want to stay on top of Malema-related news? Watch parliamentary sessions and committee meetings for EFF motions and disruptions. Follow the EFF’s official social accounts for statements and campaign updates. South African national and local news outlets cover his rallies, speeches, and court appearances in real time.
Here are practical things to monitor: policy papers from the EFF (to know exactly what they want), coalition negotiations after elections (to see who gets leverage), and legal cases that might limit or embolden him. If you’re tracking investments or business risk, watch his statements on nationalisation and major industries.
If you want balanced context, read multiple sources: party releases, independent journalists, parliamentary records, and academic or policy analyses. That helps separate headline-grabbing lines from the actual policy proposals and likely outcomes.
On this tag page you'll find news, analysis, and background pieces related to Julius Malema and the EFF. Use the stories to track developments, check who’s reacting, and see how policy debates evolve. If a major speech or legal decision drops, this page will point you to the latest coverage and the practical implications for politics, business, and everyday life in South Africa.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) deputy president Floyd Shivambu has stepped down, escalating tensions with party leader Julius Malema. His resignation, attributed to leadership disputes and allegations of mismanagement, comes as the EFF faces increasing partisan challenges and internal strife. This move marks a major shift in South Africa's political dynamics.