The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), under Julius Malema’s leadership, are increasingly presenting themselves as potential partners in South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU) as cracks in the current coalition widen.
Malema has publicly declared the GNU—comprising the ANC, DA, and smaller parties—to be nearing collapse due to ideological conflicts. He views this instability as an opening for the EFF to join government, but with one firm condition: the removal of the DA from the alliance.
The EFF leader cites the recent passage of the 2025/26 National Budget as evidence of the GNU’s fragility. The ANC secured approval with support from minor coalition partners while the DA withheld its backing. “We proved to South Africans that the GNU no longer exists—it collapsed before our eyes,” Malema stated.
He highlights ongoing policy disputes, including disagreements over the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill, as further signs of strain between the ANC and DA. Malema’s strategy appears to rely on these tensions escalating, particularly as the ANC approaches its 2027 leadership conference.
“We are ready to enter government—we’re just waiting. When they start fighting with Helen Zille, we’re stepping in,” Malema told supporters, suggesting that renewed conflict involving the DA’s federal chairperson could pave the way for an ANC-EFF partnership.
Malema has also leveraged foreign policy rhetoric to isolate the DA, accusing it of encouraging U.S. interference in South Africa. This anti-Western stance could appeal to ANC factions wary of foreign influence.
Yet significant hurdles remain. The EFF refused to join the GNU in 2024 specifically due to the DA’s inclusion, and it’s unclear whether the ANC is prepared to reconfigure the coalition. Nevertheless, with Malema’s calculated positioning and the GNU’s growing instability, the EFF may soon emerge as a key player in redefining South Africa’s political landscape.
