Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has distanced himself from what he describes as “anarchy” that disrupts vital services such as healthcare and education. Writing on X, Malema declared that he would not associate himself with actions that deny pregnant women access to health facilities or remove children from classrooms for political gain. “Dumelang ma fighter a mahle! We must refuse the invitation to join anarchy that prevents pregnant women from accessing health facilities and the removal of kids from the classroom in exchange for votes,” Malema wrote. “I refuse to be part of perpetuating the suffering and trauma of the black nation. Haak thugs!”
The post comes amid heightened tensions in some communities, where political contestation has increasingly spilled into the disruption of essential services. Malema’s remarks appear aimed at distancing the EFF from tactics that could harm ordinary South Africans, particularly the most vulnerable. The EFF has built its brand on radical protest and uncompromising opposition, often clashing with government institutions and rival parties. However, Malema’s latest comments suggest an attempt to draw a line between legitimate protest and what he perceives as reckless actions that deepen the suffering of the poor.
His sharp use of the phrase “Haak thugs!” underlined his condemnation of those engaging in such acts, which he argued only traumatise black communities already facing immense challenges. Malema’s stance also comes at a time when political campaigning is intensifying ahead of upcoming local government by-elections. With service delivery failures dominating community frustrations, competition among parties has escalated.
In distancing himself from disruptive methods that directly affect healthcare and education, Malema is positioning the EFF as a party that insists on radical change but not at the expense of the most vulnerable. His statement reflects both political messaging and a broader call for discipline within activist ranks.
Dumelang ma fighter a mahle! We must refuse the invitation to join anarchy that prevents pregnant women from accessing health facilities and the removal of kids from the classroom in exchange for votes. I refuse to be part of perpetuating the suffering and trauma of the black…
— Julius Sello Malema (@Julius_S_Malema) September 12, 2025
