The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are escalating their campaign to hold former President Jacob Zuma accountable for the controversial upgrades to his Nkandla residence. After years of insisting that Zuma “pay back the money” for the non-security enhancements, the party is now pursuing legal action to seize assets from his property.
The EFF has instructed its legal team to initiate proceedings to attach movable assets at Zuma’s Nkandla home. This step aims to recover funds spent on upgrades deemed excessive and unrelated to security needs. EFF leader Julius Malema described the move as a continuation of their mission to ensure accountability for the misuse of public resources.
The Nkandla saga has long been a flashpoint in South African politics. In 2014, then-Public Protector Thuli Madonsela’s report, Secure in Comfort, found that several of the upgrades at Zuma’s private residence—such as a swimming pool, amphitheater, and cattle kraal—were unnecessary for security purposes. The report recommended that Zuma repay a portion of the costs. Opposition parties, including the EFF, have consistently called for him to reimburse the state.
In 2016, the Constitutional Court ruled that Zuma had violated the Constitution by failing to implement the Public Protector’s recommendations. The court ordered him to repay a portion of the funds. However, the EFF argues that Zuma has not fully complied with the ruling, prompting their latest legal efforts.
By seeking to attach assets at Nkandla, the EFF underscores its commitment to holding Zuma accountable while reigniting the debate over public funds and political accountability in South Africa. The move highlights lingering tensions between the former president and opposition parties and raises broader questions about the management of state resources.