EFF leader Julius Malema has brushed off criticism from an ANC member, advising them to focus on their own party leadership instead of targeting him. This comes after Malema took a public swipe at the ANC for appointing what he described as weak youth leaders to national youth development programs.
Malema questioned the ruling party’s selection of youth representatives, arguing that they lack the vision and capabilities needed to drive meaningful change. His remarks drew pushback from an ANC member, who challenged his views.
In a sharp rebuttal, Malema fired back: “Go and be built, inspired, and educated by your leaders; I am not one of them. If you possessed even a basic understanding of leadership, you would recognize that this interview was conducted publicly to scrutinize those aiming to occupy public office.”
Malema, a former ANC Youth League president before founding the EFF, has been an outspoken critic of the ANC’s youth structures, accusing them of being uninspired and lacking independence. He has consistently positioned the EFF as a home for young South Africans frustrated with the ANC’s leadership.
ANC supporters, however, have defended their party’s youth leaders, arguing that they are committed to advancing young people’s interests. They accuse Malema of grandstanding and undermining the progress made within the ANC’s youth programs.
As tensions between the two parties escalate, Malema’s latest remarks are set to fuel further debate about the state of youth leadership in South Africa and whether the current political structures are truly preparing young leaders for the future.