EFF leader Julius Malema Warns That Helen Zille & The DA Will Make Poor Residents Pay More

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has launched a fierce attack against Helen Zille and the Democratic Alliance (DA), warning that poor South Africans could face even greater financial hardship if the party expands its control over municipalities.

The EFF leader pointed to Cape Town as an example of what he believes could happen under DA-led municipal administrations, arguing that poor residents are increasingly exposed to the financial burden of accessing basic services.

According to Malema, the DA’s approach to municipal governance risks making life more expensive for ordinary South Africans who are already battling unemployment, poverty and rising household expenses.

He warned that low-income families could find themselves spending an even larger portion of their limited income simply to access services that are essential for everyday survival.

His comments come amid heightened political competition following the 2026 Local Government Elections, which have significantly reshaped the country’s municipal political landscape.

The EFF leader has repeatedly positioned his party as a political voice for working-class communities and economically disadvantaged South Africans, arguing that municipalities should prioritise the needs of poor residents rather than place additional financial pressure on them.

Malema’s criticism also puts the spotlight on Zille and the DA’s governance record in Cape Town, where questions surrounding municipal tariffs, service affordability and the cost of living remain politically sensitive.

The DA has generally defended its municipal governance model by emphasising financial sustainability, responsible budgeting and the need to maintain infrastructure and essential services.

With coalition negotiations shaping the country post-election political landscape, the affordability of basic services is emerging as an important battleground.

For Malema the message is unmistakable: access to water electricity and sanitation must not become a luxury that struggling South Africans can no longer afford.