Malema Stirs Debate on Foreign-Owned Tenders in Seshego Rally

EFF leader Julius Malema has called for South Africans to be prioritized in municipal tenders during a rally in Seshego, marking a notable shift in his rhetoric on foreign nationals’ economic participation.

Addressing supporters on 16 August, Malema acknowledged Zimbabweans’ right to work – but stressed such opportunities should exist “in their home country.” His comments come amid controversy in Polokwane, where the mayor defended awarding contracts to foreign-owned companies as legally compliant.

While maintaining foreign nationals shouldn’t be scapegoated, Malema urged Seshego residents to “rise up” against tender allocations they believe disadvantage locals. This contrasts with his previous inclusive stance, raising questions about whether this reflects a policy change or electioneering.

The debate touches on South Africa’s complex procurement landscape: while current laws permit qualified foreign-owned firms to bid, growing public sentiment favors local preference in job-creating contracts. Political analysts suggest Malema’s remarks may preview the EFF’s economic messaging ahead of elections, as parties vie for votes in communities frustrated by unemployment and service delivery failures.

Polokwane’s mayor maintains that proper procedures were followed in recent controversial tender awards. However, the EFF leader’s latest position aligns with increasing calls for municipalities to prioritize local businesses – setting up tender allocation as a likely flashpoint in upcoming campaigns.