As South Africa grapples with rising crime and deepening distrust in institutions, EFF leader Julius Malema took a firm stance this weekend—rejecting claims that criminals have infiltrated his party.
Speaking in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, at the EFF’s 3rd Central Command Team meeting, Malema said the EFF remains committed to holding the state accountable and isn’t compromised by criminal interests.
“We’re Not Captured,” Malema Insists
Malema didn’t mince his words when it came to protecting the party’s image.
He made it clear that the Economic Freedom Fighters are not, and will never be, under the control of criminal syndicates.
According to him, the EFF has consistently led the charge in demanding transparency and action from government institutions.
“The EFF has always stood firm on accountability,” he said, addressing the party’s highest decision-making body between national conferences.
Taking Aim at Ramaphosa Over NPA Scandal
The EFF leader also reignited criticism of President Cyril Ramaphosa, this time over alleged interference with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).
Referring to past warnings from NPA boss Shamila Batohi, who claimed there were “sinister forces” undermining the NPA, Malema accused the president of silencing her instead of investigating.
“We wrote to the president and called for an inquiry. Rather than act, he told her to retract her statement,” Malema told the crowd.
“That was not leadership. That was cover-up.”
Parliament Blocks EFF’s Proposal to Tackle Extortion
Malema went on to recall how, earlier in 2024, the EFF introduced a motion in Parliament to create a special committee to investigate criminal extortion networks.
These groups, he said, have been terrorising local businesses and communities in provinces like the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal.
However, he claimed the motion was blocked by the ANC, DA, and IFP—parties that govern those provinces.
“Criminals cheered that day,” Malema added. “Because their political protectors did exactly what they needed them to.”
Praise for Police Commissioner Mkhwanazi
One person Malema did applaud was KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
The top cop has been vocal about how deeply criminal groups are embedded in political systems—and Malema said it was refreshing to hear the truth being spoken so boldly from within the state.
“Mkhwanazi broke ranks to say what we’ve been saying all along,” Malema said.
“It took real bravery, and if the SAPS pushes him out, he’ll be welcome in the EFF.”
A Final Word on Independence
Malema ended his speech by doubling down on the party’s position. “We are not for sale,” he said.
“We don’t take orders from crime bosses, and we’ve proven that over and over again.”
With the general election season looming and public trust in politics under scrutiny, Malema’s message was aimed not just at his supporters—but also at those questioning the EFF’s role in the fight against South Africa’s criminal underworld.