EFF leader Julius Malema has vowed to transform Mpumalanga into a frontline province in the party’s campaign against corruption, signaling a stronger focus on local government accountability as the 2026 municipal elections approach.
Speaking at the party’s 2nd Central Command Team (CCT) meeting at Zebula Golf Estate & Spa in Bela-Bela over the weekend, Malema detailed an aggressive anti-corruption strategy specifically targeting Mpumalanga. He described the province as “plagued by maladministration and elite enrichment,” promising that the EFF would expose deep-rooted corruption networks that have undermined service delivery.
🔴Julius Malema: EFF to Lead Fight Against Corruption in Mpumalanga Ahead of 2026 Elections🔴
Julius Malema, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has declared a renewed and intensified campaign against corruption in Mpumalanga, positioning the… pic.twitter.com/0oyLLDJZFY
— Central News (@centralnewsza) May 5, 2025
“The people of Mpumalanga are victims of a corrupt political system,” Malema stated. “We will not stand by while a select few with political connections loot public funds. The EFF will take the fight to every municipality.”
The EFF’s renewed focus on Mpumalanga follows growing public anger over mismanaged projects and missing budgets in municipalities like Govan Mbeki, Lekwa, and Msukaligwa. Auditor-General reports have repeatedly highlighted irregular spending in the region, leaving critical infrastructure—such as roads, water systems, and sanitation—in disrepair.
Malema’s address also touched on broader themes. In his CCT speech, later published in *The Radical Voice*, he criticized international imperialism, accusing global powers of exploiting Africa’s resources while ignoring local corruption that perpetuates poverty.
On the domestic front, Malema reaffirmed the EFF’s commitment to strengthening grassroots structures in all Mpumalanga wards, fielding competent and disciplined councilor candidates, and running an unapologetic campaign focused on the working class.
Political analysts suggest Malema’s intensified focus on Mpumalanga reflects the EFF’s ambition to take control of key municipalities from the ANC, where internal divisions and patronage allegations have weakened public trust.
“Malema sees an opportunity and is acting quickly,” said analyst Thabiso Molefe. “If the EFF can rally disenchanted voters, particularly the youth, Mpumalanga could become a decisive factor in the elections.”
With just over a year until the municipal polls, the EFF’s declaration sets the stage for a high-stakes political battle—one framed not just as a contest for power, but as a fight for accountability and principle.