“Slay Queens Will Suffer Now”: Malema Claims EFF Has Taken the Purse in Attack on Public Spending

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has delivered a controversial message about the alleged misuse of public funds, declaring that those who benefited from money meant to serve ordinary citizens will no longer enjoy the same privileges.

Malema, the party’s Commander-in-Chief (CIC), accused political leaders of diverting resources intended for public service to fund the lifestyles of women he described as “slay queens”.

In a statement attributed to the EFF and shared on social media, Malema said the party had taken control of the purse, warning that those who allegedly benefited from the misuse of public money would face a different reality.

“They take money that’s supposed to serve the people and give it to slay queens, but they won’t do it again. We have taken the purse, slay queens will suffer now.” — EFFSouthAfrica CIC Julius_S_Malema

The remarks reflect Malema’s longstanding criticism of what he describes as the abuse of public resources by politically connected individuals, particularly at the expense of poor and working-class South Africans.

His comments also revive a familiar political theme in his attacks on the African National Congress (ANC), which has previously faced criticism from the EFF over allegations of corruption, patronage and the misuse of state resources.

During the 2024 general election period, Malema similarly accused ANC leaders of using money intended for poor communities to finance lavish lifestyles and relationships. He argued at the time that the ANC’s declining electoral support had weakened its access to political power and the resources associated with it.

The latest statement comes as political parties intensify their campaigns ahead of South Africa’s November 4, 2026, local government elections, with public accountability, service delivery and the management of municipal finances likely to remain important campaign issues.

The EFF has positioned itself as a party fighting for economic justice and the redistribution of resources towards disadvantaged communities. Malema’s latest remarks reinforce that message while targeting what he portrays as a culture of political privilege.

However, allegations of public funds being diverted for private benefit require evidence and should be distinguished from established findings of wrongdoing.

Whether the statement translates into concrete political action remains to be seen. For voters, the central question is whether political leaders can demonstrate that public money is being spent transparently and directed towards improving the lives of ordinary citizens.

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