The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) launched its 2026 local government election manifesto during a rally in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province [1, 2].
This dual event combines the party's political strategy for municipal control with a celebration of its longevity. By aligning the manifesto launch with a milestone anniversary, the party seeks to energize its base and project strength ahead of the upcoming local polls.
Julius Malema, leader of the EFF, addressed supporters in Thohoyandou as the party marked its 13th anniversary [1]. The EFF was founded in 2013 [1]. During the event, Malema said to supporters, "Victory or death" [2].
The manifesto outlines the party's specific vision for municipalities in the 2026 elections [1, 2]. The EFF is positioning these local government seats as a critical battleground for its broader national influence. The party's leadership said the timing of the launch was a strategic boost to its campaign momentum [1].
Supporters gathered in the Limpopo Province to celebrate the party's 13-year history, while reviewing the policy goals for the 2026 cycle [1, 2]. The event served as both a policy unveiling and a demonstration of party loyalty under Malema's leadership.
Throughout the proceedings, the party focused on its identity as a disruptive force in South African politics. The combination of anniversary celebrations and electoral planning is intended to signal stability and growth to the electorate [1].
“Victory or death”
By merging a celebratory anniversary with a policy launch, the EFF is utilizing emotional mobilization to drive its 2026 electoral strategy. This approach attempts to convert party loyalty into municipal votes, potentially challenging the dominance of larger parties in local government administrations across South Africa.
