Thousands of supporters gathered at Thohoyandou Stadium as the Economic Freedom Fighters marked their 13th anniversary and launched their manifesto, reflecting on the party’s political influence and community initiatives.
Thousands of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) supporters gathered at Thohoyandou Stadium in Limpopo today as the party celebrated its 13th anniversary and launched its manifesto ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections.
Founded in 2013 by Julius Malema and other former African National Congress Youth League leaders, the EFF has grown into one of South Africa’s leading opposition parties. Since its establishment, the party has expanded its presence in Parliament, provincial legislatures and municipalities while positioning itself as a champion of radical economic transformation.
Influencing national policy
The EFF has consistently used its representation in Parliament to hold the executive accountable through debates, oversight processes and motions. The party has been vocal on issues including corruption, unemployment, service delivery, governance and state capture.
It is also widely recognised for placing land reform and expropriation without compensation at the centre of South Africa’s political discourse. The party continues to advocate for the nationalisation of mines, banks and other strategic sectors of the economy, arguing that these measures are necessary to address economic inequality.
Electoral growth
Beyond politics, the EFF has undertaken various community outreach initiatives across the country. Through its branches, public representatives and supporters, the party has helped build and hand over houses to vulnerable families in some communities.
The party has also donated food parcels, school uniforms, blankets, sanitary products and other essential items to disadvantaged households, particularly during periods of economic hardship, natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Looking ahead
As the EFF marks its 13th anniversary, the party says it remains committed to its founding principles of economic freedom, social justice and equality. While supporters credit the party with influencing national policy debates and improving the lives of vulnerable communities, critics argue that some of its policy proposals remain difficult to implement.
The anniversary celebration and manifesto launch at Thohoyandou Stadium served as both a reflection on the party’s journey over the past 13 years and a platform to outline its vision ahead of the upcoming Local Government Elections.
