Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has vowed to support communities affected by recent floods in Mthatha and criticised government delays in responding to the crisis.
Speaking during a visit to the flood-hit region on Saturday, 28 June, Malema said government officials were slow to act, despite the floods claiming lives and destroying infrastructure.
“After more than 100 people died, the army only came after the fence,” Malema said.
“If there’s a disaster, it means there’s an emergency. We can’t keep calling meetings. We must meet people on the ground and help.”
Malema condemned authorities for holding meetings instead of providing immediate aid and promised that the EFF would help families bury their loved ones with dignity.
EFF Commits to Burial Support
Malema said the EFF would assist bereaved families whose loved ones died in the floods.
According to The Citizen, he also promised to confront any traditional, municipal or police who interfered with burial rights.
“No one should be refused a burial,” he said. “We will make sure everyone who needs to be buried is buried.”
Urgent Shelter Needed for Displaced Families
He also raised concerns over families, especially those with young children, who had been denied access to temporary shelters, and some even turned away from churches.
“We cannot have children sleeping under trees,” Malema said.
“Let’s find them a wall, a church or a school. Let’s go back and plead with the church to accommodate these people while we work on urgent solutions.”
Malema Calls on Wealthy South Africans to Step In
Malema urged affluent South Africans, especially Black business leaders and major foundations, to help communities affected by the floods.
“Where is the Motsepe Foundation when parents are asking for clothes for children?” he asked.
He contrasted the lack of support in Mthatha with relief efforts in wealthy areas like Cape Town.
“In Cape Town, when there was a disaster, companies sent food, clothes, everything. Why not here?”
A Plea for Comprehensive Support
The EFF leader stressed that victims need more than just basic relief.
“The disaster washed away the clothes, furniture and belongings of our people. Let’s help them rebuild their lives.”
He added that women especially need sanitary pads, toiletries and clothing.
Support for Grassroots Women Leaders
Malema praised the women leading local relief centres, calling them strong leaders who must continue to speak truthfully about their communities’ needs.
“Don’t lie to receive food. Speak the truth. Sponsors who want lies are not welcome,” he said.
He urged communities to maintain honesty and transparency: “Where there are issues, please speak to us.”
Do you think wealthy South Africans and private companies are doing enough to support communities hit by natural disasters like the Mthatha floods?
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