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South Africa at a Crossroads: ANC’s Legacy and the Rise of the EFF

The African National Congress (ANC) has held power for 30 years since the historic 1994 elections. Despite this, many South Africans claim they have seen little progress. This year alone, there have been four significant scandals involving over R1-billion in misspending by opportunists who exploited the relaxation of procurement systems during the Covid-19 pandemic. Under President Cyril Ramaphosa, the pace of corruption has not substantially slowed; it has grown.

With the rise of political parties like the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led by Julius Malema, many believe that the EFF will lead them from the "Pharaoh" (ANC) to the promised land. The EFF declares, "2024 is our 1994."


A Pivotal Election: The Choice Before South Africans

“There is one choice in this election: Are we going to let the ANC continue ruining our lives and the future of our children? We are here today because the answer is a big NO. We love our families and communities too much to gamble with their lives by letting thieves stay in power,” said a concerned citizen.


This is not the future we voted for in 1994. It is time to move away once again from an abusive system and leaders who really hate us. Unemployment is higher now than it was twenty years ago," said Mr Cornson Villakazi. Reports indicate that violent crime is worse now than it was twenty years ago. Observers note that corruption has not only intensified, but voter turnout and engagement are also dwindling as people lose faith in democracy and the Constitution that many fought and died for. Analysts highlight that people are increasingly hungry, angry, hopeless, and disillusioned. All this is happening under a democratically elected ANC government. Many people think that a better life for all is an illusion that cannot be achieved under the current ANC government, leading to the conclusion that the country is in a crisis.

EFF's Vision: Land, Jobs, and Economic Freedom

"They stole our land, so we cannot pay them for it,” EFF President Julius Malema told supporters. “We cannot postpone the land question. It must happen now. We are hungry now and we want to eat now.” The EFF, which became the second-largest opposition force in its maiden election five years ago, resonates with black township residents whose standard of living has seen little improvement since the end of apartheid.

The EFF is promising more money for child support grants, pensions, free education, and jobs. They're saying they'll focus on land redistribution, too. But can they actually do all that? And can they do a better job than the ANC at fixing corruption and making life fairer for everyone?


The Crossroads: Deciding South Africa's Future

As the 2024 elections approach, South Africans face a critical decision. Will they allow the ANC to continue its rule, or will they opt for a new direction with the EFF? The choice is pivotal: continue with a party that many feels has failed to deliver on its promises or embrace the EFF's bold vision for economic transformation and social justice.

South Africa stands at a crossroads. The future of the nation depends on the choices made in the coming election. Which party should South Africans vote for? This remains a question only they can answer, informed by their experiences, hopes, and aspirations for a better tomorrow.


Written by 

Malatjie Funky Remember

Multimedia Journalist







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