Julius Malema Analyzes EFF Election Setbacks and Internal Political Tensions
EFF leader attributes vote losses to ANC-DA coalition dynamics while criticizing former party members.
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1National Vote Share Decline
The EFF experienced a decline in the 2026 local government elections, securing 1.8 million votes or 6.26% of the national total. This performance marks a significant drop from the 2.4 million votes, or 10.31%, achieved in 2021. The party consequently shifted from third to fourth place in the national rankings.
2ANC-DA Coalition Impact
Julius Malema argues that voters shifted support to the DA because the ANC normalized working with them in a government of national unity. He claims voters questioned why they should avoid supporting the DA if the ANC itself was willing to form alliances and grant the party government positions.
3Ward-Level Growth Metrics
Despite national losses, Malema highlighted growth in ward victories, increasing from 19 in 2021 to 37 in 2026. This includes 30 new wards and seven retained seats. The party saw notable progress in North West, where ward counts rose from three to 10, and Mpumalanga, where they secured seven victories.
4Metropolitan Electoral Breakthroughs
The EFF achieved a milestone by securing ward councillors in metropolitan municipalities for the first time. The party won two wards in the City of Johannesburg and one each in Buffalo City and Mangaung. Additionally, support increased across 48 municipalities, including Nelson Mandela Bay and the Northern Cape region.
5Rebuking Mbuyiseni Ndlozi
Malema publicly criticized former member Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi for abstaining from the 2026 elections. Ndlozi had cited dissatisfaction with citizen conduct as his reason for not voting. Malema mocked this decision, questioning Ndlozi's self-importance and criticizing his interaction with former president Thabo Mbeki regarding the choice to boycott the polls.
6Defending Campaign Spending
Floyd Shivambu, leader of the Afrika Mayibuye Movement, criticized the EFF for spending millions on music festivals during the campaign. Malema dismissed these concerns, asserting that the party maintains full autonomy over its financial decisions. He insisted the EFF is entitled to allocate its own funds as it deems appropriate.
7Coalition Negotiation Stance
Malema warned that the EFF will adopt a hard line during upcoming coalition negotiations. He specifically criticized DA mayoral candidate Helen Zille, accusing her of arrogance. Malema stated the party is prepared to remain on the sidelines if necessary, rather than being intimidated by the DA during the formation of governments.
8Future Organizational Outlook
Malema acknowledged the electoral setback but insisted it would not derail the party's long-term ambitions. He believes the results provide a clear picture for reorganizing the EFF. By focusing on ward-level gains and internal discipline, the leadership aims to recover its national support base and strengthen its political footprint moving forward.