EFF Celebrates 10th Anniversary at FNB Stadium
On Saturday, 29 July, thousands of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) members gathered at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium to commemorate the party’s 10th anniversary.
The EFF, which officially launched on 26 July 2013 at the Koppie outside Rustenburg in the North West, has a significant historical connection to the site, where police had fatally shot at least 34 mine workers who were demanding a minimum wage of R12,500 on 16 August 2012.
The EFF describes itself as a radical and militant economic emancipation movement, aiming to unite revolutionary activists, militant groups, community-based organizations, and lobby groups under the umbrella of a political party dedicated to the pursuit of economic liberation.
Keynote Address by Malema, the Outspoken Leader
The celebration was graced by the presence of EFF’s bold and outspoken leader, Julius Malema, and other prominent figures in South African politics, including UDM leader Bantu Holomisa and ATM leader Vuyo Zungula.
Malema delivered the keynote address, addressing various issues currently facing South Africans as the country prepares for the 2024 elections.
Public Representatives Banned from the Celebration
In a surprising move, the EFF banned some of its public representatives, including MPs and MPLs, from attending the 10th-anniversary rally.
The reason behind this decision was their failure to arrange transportation for their constituencies to be part of the celebration.
In January of the same year, the party had directed all its public representatives to organize transportation for the people they represented, ensuring a nationwide representation at the event.
The deadline for submitting transportation plans was initially set for 31 May 2023 and later extended to 30 June.
The party expressed its dissatisfaction, stating that those whose names appeared on the list of representatives who failed to meet the transportation directive would face consequences, and further actions might be taken against them.
This decision highlighted the EFF’s commitment to its principles and goals, emphasizing the importance of broader public participation in their anniversary event.
In conclusion, the EFF’s 10th-anniversary celebration at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg marked a significant milestone for the party, which has grown to become the third-largest political party in South Africa.
The event brought together party members, leaders, and supporters to reflect on their journey and advocate for the radical economic change they strive to achieve.
However, the party’s decision to ban some public representatives who did not meet the transportation directive added a layer of controversy to the celebration, underscoring the party’s unwavering commitment to its vision of economic emancipation.