Helen Zille Hits Back After Malema’s Controversial Comments About Voters

EFF leader Julius Malema has sparked debate after criticising South African voters, accusing some citizens of allowing historical loyalties to influence their political decisions instead of focusing on current economic realities.

Addressing supporters this week, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) commander-in-chief argued that many voters remain emotionally attached to the country’s liberation history, leading them to support political parties based on past struggles rather than their present-day performance.

Malema reportedly dismissed immigration concerns as the main explanation for voting patterns, suggesting that historical connections and political loyalty play a much bigger role. He controversially described the situation as voters being “married to history, not brains”.

EFF national spokesperson Sinawo Tambo reportedly defended Malema’s comments, explaining that the party considers this issue important to its planned voter education campaign.

However, Democratic Alliance federal council chairperson Helen Zille challenged Malema’s remarks on social media, describing his position as condescending towards working-class voters.

The comments come at a difficult time for the EFF, which experienced a decline in support during the 2024 national elections. The party’s share of the national vote dropped from approximately 10.8% to below 9.5%, raising questions about its political strategy and future growth.

Malema’s remarks have also highlighted divisions within the EFF’s support base, with reports suggesting that reactions at the gathering were mixed. While some supporters applauded his comments, others appeared uncomfortable.

It remains to be seen whether this position will influence the party’s voter mobilisation strategy ahead of upcoming municipal by-elections and whether the EFF can convince more South Africans to reconsider their political loyalties.

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