While flood-stricken communities in Mthatha continue to wait for meaningful government action, EFF leader Julius Malema has stepped forward, not just to show support—but to call out the delays and promise urgent help.
Malema visited the Eastern Cape region on Saturday, 28 June, where he spoke directly with affected residents, criticizing the slow pace of the government’s disaster response.
“People Are Dying, and We’re Holding Meetings”
During his visit, Malema didn’t mince words.
He expressed frustration over what he called a lack of urgency from officials.
“After more than 100 people died, the army only came after the fence,” he said.
He slammed authorities for choosing to sit in boardrooms and schedule meetings rather than acting swiftly to meet people’s immediate needs on the ground.
“If there’s a disaster, that means it’s an emergency.
We can’t keep calling meetings. We must meet people where they are and help them.”
EFF Promises to Help With Burials
One of Malema’s first commitments was to help families bury their loved ones with dignity.
He said the EFF would step in to support bereaved families, making sure no one is denied a proper burial.
“We will confront any traditional leaders, municipal officials, or police who interfere,” he said. “No one should be refused a burial.”
According to The Citizen, Malema made it clear that burial support was a top priority for the party in the coming days.
No Child Should Be Sleeping Under a Tree
Malema also raised concerns about families being denied access to temporary shelters.
Some, he claimed, were even turned away from churches.
He called for immediate action to house displaced people, especially vulnerable children.
“We cannot have children sleeping under trees.
Let’s find them a wall, a church or a school to shelter in.”
He encouraged community leaders to go back and speak to churches and other institutions to find short-term solutions while the government catches up.
A Call for Help From Wealthy South Africans
Malema didn’t only target the government—he had strong words for the private sector and wealthy South Africans, too.
He especially called on Black business leaders and major organizations like the Motsepe Foundation to show up for Mthatha like they have for other regions.
“Where is the Motsepe Foundation when children need clothes?” he asked.
Malema compared the slow response in Mthatha to the well-funded disaster relief seen in places like Cape Town.
“In Cape Town, when there was a disaster, food, clothes, everything arrived immediately. Why not here?”
Rebuilding Lives, Not Just Handing Out Relief
The EFF leader emphasized that flood survivors need more than just food parcels.
He spoke about the loss of homes, clothes, furniture, and personal belongings—and the need for more comprehensive, longer-term support.
He also highlighted the specific needs of women, calling for donations of sanitary pads, toiletries, and clothing.
Honouring the Women Leading Local Relief Efforts
Malema gave a heartfelt shoutout to the women running local relief centers, calling them the backbone of their communities.
“They are strong leaders. They should continue to speak the truth about what’s happening in their communities,” he said.
He urged transparency and honesty, telling volunteers not to exaggerate needs just to secure donations.
“Sponsors who want lies are not welcome.
If there’s a problem, tell us. We’re here to help honestly.”