South Africa’s political landscape has been jolted by bombshell allegations from former EFF deputy leader Floyd Shivambu, who claims party leader Julius Malema and his inner circle are stealing municipal money to fund lavish lifestyles.
In leaked statements, Shivambu alleged: “They’re looting from EFF-run municipalities to bankroll Malema’s lifestyle. MMCs are siphoning public funds – it’s disgraceful.” The accusations target coalition governments in Gauteng, Limpopo and North West provinces.
The DA has demanded urgent investigations, with leader Cilliers Brink stating: “This would represent ultimate betrayal – service delivery funds converted to private luxury.” The claims emerge as frustrated communities protest crumbling services in EFF-linked municipalities.
FLOYD SHIVAMBU 🌎 ✋🏾
Malema and his goons in the EFF are looting money from municipalities the EFF is involved in. This is largely to fund Malema's lifestyle
They use their MMC positions to siphon money from the municipal coffers. It's shameful
He demands poor councillors to… pic.twitter.com/DQ28zSFeAs
— Constitution First 🇿🇦 (@Constitution_94) August 5, 2025
The scandal explodes amid Shivambu’s mysterious resignation from party leadership, fueling speculation about internal EFF turmoil. While the red berets remain silent, the allegations threaten to shatter their anti-graft credibility.
With pressure mounting for official probes, this crisis could redefine South Africa’s political balance, testing the EFF’s support base ahead of crucial elections. Observers warn the fallout may expose deeper systemic corruption in local governance.
