BUFFALO CITY, Eastern Cape — Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Leader Julius Malema has taken his campaign trail to the Buffalo City Metro in KuGompo City, urging residents to use the upcoming Local Government Elections on November 4 to transform their deplorable living conditions.
Kicking off his provincial tour, Malema engaged in door-to-door canvassing in Duncan Village and the controversial Bhongweni township, an area historically marked by land disputes and property demolitions.
During his interactions with the community in Bhongweni, residents voiced ongoing fears regarding potential evictions and demolitions allegedly orchestrated by the Department of Public Works. The EFF has been actively challenging this crisis in court. Furthermore, elderly community members highlighted a soaring crime rate, which they attribute directly to widespread poverty and a severe lack of employment opportunities.
The desperation for work was a central theme among the locals. One resident shared that they have been applying for jobs for 35 years since leaving school and are now working in the fast-food industry, a field they never studied for. The resident pleaded with the EFF to extend the employability age to 48, noting that individuals of this age remain energetic and capable of working but do not qualify for social grants and are left without opportunities.
Housing insecurity also remains a critical issue. A 45-year-old resident, who was told their area would be demolished, questioned where the community is supposed to go. “Birds have places to stay, but what about us?” the resident asked, adding that neither they nor their children are employed, despite some holding university degrees.
While promising the residents of KuGompo City a better future should the party’s candidates win, Malema also addressed political speculation regarding the upcoming elections. He clarified that the EFF has not deliberated on possible coalitions, emphasizing that the party’s manifesto does not account for losing elections or joining other parties.
“The EFF is going to win elections, and therefore you cannot run a race to become number two. We are in a race to become number one,” Malema stated.
He also dismissed rumors of party defections, stating he is unaware of anyone leaving the EFF to join rival political parties. He added that if any such departures are occurring, those individuals are “of insignificance.”
Following his engagements in the Eastern Cape, Malema is expected to continue his campaign trail in Mangaung in the Free State tomorrow.
