The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has denounced the National Dialogue, calling it a waste of state resources.
Malema made the remarks on Saturday during the Siyabonga rally in Seshego, Polokwane, Limpopo, where the party celebrated its by-election victory in July.
The EFF won the ward 13 by-election with 57% of the vote, while the African National Congress (ANC) secured 39%.
Malema Accused Government of Misusing Funds
Malema accused the government of ignoring community challenges while wasting millions on the National Dialogue.
“It served no purpose. It only protected the egos of certain people, and it wasted money. NGOs and other participants told organisers to postpone because they were not ready, but they went ahead and embarrassed themselves. We don’t support this convention, and we don’t support the National Dialogue. We already know what our people demand. Government cannot waste R700 million that it does not have,” Malema said.
EFF Targets Growth in Limpopo
Malema expressed confidence that the EFF will win more votes in Limpopo during the 2026 local government elections.
“We are ready to win wards in Bela Bela and across Limpopo. We want the EFF present in every township, municipality, and rural area, and we aim to take over government in contested wards,” Malema said.
Tribute to Marikana Victims
Malema also offered condolences to the widows and children of the Marikana massacre victims on the 13th anniversary of the tragedy at the Lonmin platinum mine in Rustenburg, North West.
Police shot and killed 34 miners during a strike for higher wages.
“We send our condolences to the widows of Marikana and the children who lost their fathers. Marikana shaped the EFF into what it is today. The EFF and Marikana will always remain linked. The pain of Marikana remains our pain, because to this day no one has been held accountable,” Malema said.
Do you think Malema is right to call the National Dialogue a waste of money?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
