Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has reiterated that his party remains independent and has consistently pushed for accountability in South Africa.
Speaking at the EFF’s 3rd Central Command Team meeting in Bela-Bela, Limpopo, Malema emphasized that the party has never been controlled by criminal elements. The Central Command Team is the EFF’s highest decision-making body between national assemblies.
Malema addressed concerns about criminal syndicates and drug cartels infiltrating the country, saying the EFF has been vocal about these issues. He recalled that when National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) head Shamila Batohi raised concerns about the NPA being compromised, the EFF was the only party that called for an inquiry.
“We wrote to the president requesting an investigation, but he ignored us and pressured Batohi to retract her claims,” Malema said.
He also mentioned that in 2024, the EFF proposed a parliamentary motion to investigate extortion networks plaguing communities. However, the ANC, DA, and IFP—parties governing provinces most affected by extortion—rejected the proposal.
“Criminal groups celebrated that day because their political cover remained intact,” Malema stated.
He praised Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi for exposing alleged collusion between police officials, politicians, and criminal syndicates. Malema said this validates the EFF’s long-standing warnings.
“This proves the EFF is not controlled by criminals, unlike other parties that only now pretend to fight crime,” he said.
Malema also criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa for allegedly silencing the NPA head, despite overseeing intelligence agencies directly.
Earlier this week, Malema expressed support for Mkhwanazi, who made corruption allegations against senior police officials and the judiciary. Parliament has since formed an ad hoc committee, including the EFF, to investigate the claims.
Malema suggested that Mkhwanazi would be welcome in the EFF if he were removed from his position in the South African Police Service (SAPS).