The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has had a remarkable journey since its inception in 2013. As the party prepares for its third elective conference, it’s essential to reflect on its key moments.
The party was launched by Julius Malema in Soweto, with over 1,000 members. This marked the beginning of the EFF’s radical and leftist stance, promoting economic emancipation. In 2014, the EFF participated in the general elections, securing 6.35% of the vote and 4.09 million votes.
However, the party experienced its first major rift in 2015, with the dismissal of MPs Khanyisile Litchfield-Tshabalala, Andile Mngxitama, and Mpho Ramakatsa. Malema was accused of using an iron fist to rule the party. The same year, the EFF launched its PayBackTheMoney campaign, calling for former President Jacob Zuma to repay state funds used for his Nkandla homestead.
In 2016, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng ruled that Zuma had violated the constitution, leading to the establishment of the Zondo Commission into State Capture. Two years later, the EFF tabled a motion to amend the Constitution, allowing for land expropriation without compensation. The motion received 241 votes in favor.
The EFF Student Command won significant victories in SRC elections at several universities, including the University of Cape Town, in 2019. This demonstrated the party’s growing influence among the youth. In 2021, Malema and Zuma met for the infamous Nkandla Tea, marking a significant shift in their relationship. Zuma allies soon joined the EFF, and the party’s stance on the former president softened.
However, in 2023, the EFF attempted to shut down the country in protest against load shedding and to call for President Cyril Ramaphosa’s resignation. The demonstration was deemed unsuccessful. Later that year, Zuma launched the MK Party, which came as a blow to the EFF. The party had been hoping Zuma would endorse them in the 2024 elections.
In the 2024 elections, the EFF secured 9.52% of the vote, losing one million votes compared to the 2019 elections. The party refused to join the ANC-led Government of National Unity (GNU) due to the participation of the DA and FF+. Deputy President Floyd Shivambu left the EFF to join Zuma’s MKP, marking a significant blow to the party. Malema initially welcomed Shivambu back, but later formed a betrayal narrative against him.
As the EFF heads into its elective conference, the party is expected to undergo a leadership transition. With several high-profile officials defecting to the MKP, the conference will be a pivotal moment in the party’s history.
