The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have announced an immediate end to all cooperation and working relationships with the African National Congress (ANC). The decision, delivered by EFF leader Julius Malema, stems from what he describes as the ANC’s abandonment of agreed-upon principles of co-governance.
Fractured Alliances
The EFF and ANC have previously shared power in several Gauteng metropolitan municipalities, including a collaborative arrangement supporting Premier Panyaza Lesufi’s provincial government. According to Malema, the core principle of their cooperation was consensus-based rule. However, recent actions, particularly those of Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosingiphile Xhakaza, have led the EFF to believe this principle is no longer respected.
Malema alleges that Xhakaza has been attempting to unilaterally remove EFF members from positions of responsibility within the Ekurhuleni municipality, effectively undermining the agreed-upon power-sharing arrangement. He characterized the situation as resembling “a shebeen, not a political co-operation,” and insisted that “for every political decision there are political consequences.”
A Matter of Power Dynamics
Malema criticized what he perceives as the ANC’s continued attempts to exert dominance in coalition politics, stating that this “big brother perspective” hinders genuine collaboration. He contrasted Xhakaza’s alleged behavior with that of Premier Lesufi, whom he described as consistently consultative with stakeholders. Malema stated, “The downfall of the ANC will be Xhakaza.”
The EFF leader also expressed concern that Xhakaza is seeking to install individuals he can control, specifically referencing the recent election of a new speaker who defeated the EFF’s candidate, former finance MMC Nkululeko Dunga. Malema asserted that Dunga had previously stabilized the finances of Ekurhuleni.
Potential Consequences
Malema acknowledged that this decision will likely have negative repercussions for the stability of the Gauteng government, potentially impacting the provincial budget and the role of the MEC of finance. However, he maintained that remaining in a dysfunctional coalition would be more detrimental to the EFF’s constituency. He stated the party aims to avoid being associated with decisions that benefit individual interests rather than the public good.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the EFF’s decision to withdraw from the ANC?
The EFF cites the ANC’s, and specifically Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosingiphile Xhakaza’s, failure to adhere to principles of consensus-based co-governance as the primary reason for ending the working relationship.
What impact could this have on the Gauteng government?
Julius Malema conceded that the decision could have “dire consequences” for the stability of the Gauteng government, potentially affecting the provincial budget and the MEC of finance.
What does the EFF hope to achieve by withdrawing from the coalition?
The EFF aims to distance itself from what it perceives as corrupt or self-serving decisions made within the coalition, and to demonstrate to its constituency that it will not compromise its principles for the sake of maintaining power.
How will this shift in political alliances reshape the future of governance in Gauteng?
