EFF leader Julius Malema stirred controversy at David Mabuza’s funeral by publicly rejecting the late deputy president’s final political request – that he rejoin the ANC to help rebuild the party.
In a fiery eulogy that disrupted the somber mood, Malema branded the ANC as “a criminal syndicate and cartel that exists to steal,” declaring he would never return to the party he once led as youth leader. His remarks divided mourners at the Mpumalanga service, with some showing silent approval while others appeared visibly uncomfortable.
The EFF leader framed his refusal as principled, comparing rejoining the ANC to “returning to a burning house.” Yet he paid measured tribute to Mabuza as a skilled political operator, saying their disagreements never erased mutual respect.
Political analysts view Malema’s outburst as both a eulogy critique and an early campaign move, hardening his anti-ANC stance ahead of elections. The remarks raise questions about whether this signals intensified opposition attacks or could provoke ANC counter-moves.
While Mabuza’s family avoided engaging with the controversy, focusing on funeral proceedings, Malema’s intervention ensures the late leader’s legacy becomes entangled in South Africa’s ongoing political realignment. The incident leaves voters pondering whether such blunt critiques will reshape the political landscape or simply widen existing divisions.