The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have strongly criticized discussions surrounding a Government of National Unity (GNU), with party leader Julius Malema denouncing the initiative as a “ploy to protect elite interests” while neglecting the needs of ordinary South Africans.
Speaking at the EFF’s year-end gathering in Johannesburg, Malema accused President Cyril Ramaphosa and the African National Congress (ANC) of using the GNU to mask their failures in addressing the country’s deep socio-economic inequalities. “The GNU is a desperate attempt to salvage the ANC’s declining power while sidelining the real issues affecting South Africans,” Malema said.
The EFF leader reaffirmed the party’s commitment to its core objectives, including land redistribution, economic emancipation, and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable communities. Malema vowed that the EFF would resist political arrangements that undermine accountability and service delivery.
Criticism of the GNU
The GNU, proposed as a mechanism to stabilize coalition-led municipalities, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties like the EFF. Malema warned that such alliances could erode democratic principles by prioritizing political convenience over meaningful governance.
“The GNU is a betrayal of the people. It prioritizes the comfort of political elites rather than the urgent needs of South Africa’s majority,” he stated.
Ramaphosa’s Optimistic Outlook
In contrast, President Cyril Ramaphosa painted a hopeful picture of South Africa’s progress. Highlighting advances in energy reforms, infrastructure development, and social welfare programs, Ramaphosa described the country’s trajectory as one of “steady progress.”
“Despite the challenges, we are building a South Africa that works for all,” Ramaphosa said, emphasizing the importance of national unity in tackling persistent issues like unemployment, corruption, and gender-based violence.
However, these assurances have been met with skepticism. The EFF and other critics argue that the government lacks the political will to implement transformative policies, dismissing Ramaphosa’s remarks as “hollow promises.”
A Stark Ideological Divide
The ideological chasm between the EFF and the ANC continues to widen as South Africa approaches 2025. While the ANC champions the GNU as a pathway to political stability, the EFF positions itself as the voice of the disenfranchised, vowing to challenge what it calls “empty rhetoric” with decisive grassroots action.
The months ahead will test whether the GNU can gain the public’s trust or if the EFF’s relentless critique and mobilization efforts will resonate with a disillusioned electorate.
