ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has confirmed that Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema’s account of behind-the-scenes negotiations on the recent budget vote was accurate. At a media briefing on Tuesday, Mbalula admitted the ANC engaged with the EFF, seeking their abstention to ensure the national budget’s passage.
“We did hold discussions with the EFF,” Mbalula stated. “This was a tactical effort to maintain stability within the Government of National Unity (GNU).”
Malema had previously revealed that the ANC privately urged the EFF to stay out of the vote—a claim initially met with doubt. He further disclosed that the EFF set conditions for their cooperation, demanding the exclusion of the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Freedom Front Plus (FF+) from the GNU. The EFF has long accused both parties of obstructing progressive policies.
“Our stance was unambiguous,” Malema said. “We would only consider abstaining if the ANC cut ties with right-wing factions.”
The admission has ignited heated political debate, exposing deepening rifts within the GNU and casting doubt on its sustainability. Political analysts argue the episode highlights the challenges of multi-party governance in a sharply divided environment.
The DA and FF+ have yet to issue formal responses, though sources indicate both parties perceive the ANC’s outreach to the EFF as a breach of trust.
Though the budget ultimately succeeded, the EFF’s refusal to cooperate leaves the ANC balancing between opposing political forces.
As the GNU’s future remains uncertain, the ANC is under increasing scrutiny to define its alliances—and its commitment to the unity government’s survival.