On Monday, 19 May 2025, Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led a powerful demonstration in the “VAT Victory March” from the Union Buildings to the National Treasury in Pretoria. The march, which marked the suspension of the proposed VAT increase, quickly turned into a platform for Malema to launch a scathing critique of the National Treasury’s fiscal policies.
Malema did not hold back, accusing the Treasury of continuing austerity measures that, according to him, disproportionately hurt black South Africans. Speaking to a large crowd of supporters, he emphasized that the government’s budget cuts were exacerbating economic inequality and undermining efforts to empower the country’s black majority.
“You are failing black South Africans,” Malema declared, pointing to cuts in essential services like education, healthcare, and social grants as evidence that the government’s fiscal policies were not designed to support the poor and disenfranchised. He further criticized the lack of investment in land reform and job creation, which he believes are fundamental to addressing the systemic inequality that persists across the country.
The VAT reversal was celebrated by the EFF as a victory against what they viewed as regressive policies. However, Malema’s focus quickly shifted to broader economic grievances, especially the cuts that have had a direct impact on the poorest communities.
As the march concluded, Malema and his supporters vowed to continue fighting against what they see as a pro-corporate agenda that fails to address the pressing needs of black South Africans. With 2025 budget decisions looming, the EFF’s call for inclusive economic policies is likely to remain a key battleground in the months ahead.
