EFF leader Julius Malema says his party will not enter an alliance with the Democratic Alliance (DA) or Freedom Front Plus (FF+).
Malema made the declaration while addressing delegates at a Botswana National Front conference. The party forms part of Botswana’s governing coalition.
His comments come as South Africa prepares for local government elections and political parties face growing questions about possible coalition agreements.
Malema Rejects Potential Alliances
Malema told delegates that working with the DA or FF+ would undermine the EFF’s progressive political agenda.
“We will never align with the DA, we will never align with Freedom Front Plus,” he said.
He described any possible agreement with the two parties as a “sold-out position”. Malema also said he would rather remain outside government than work with parties he considers political opponents.
“I would rather die poor than dine with the enemy,” he said.
The DA and FF+ currently serve alongside the ANC and several other parties in South Africa’s Government of National Unity.
Coalition talks are expected to become increasingly important ahead of the local government elections, particularly in municipalities where no party secures an outright majority.
EFF Leader Calls for African Unity
Malema also addressed anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa and called for stronger unity between African countries.
He said people responsible for xenophobic attacks suffered from “self-hate” and argued that South Africans should not be generalised as being against African unity.
Malema called for closer ties across the Southern African Development Community. He said countries in the region share family, educational and cultural connections.
He added that African people had been collectively exploited and should not turn against each other.
Malema Returns to Botswana
Malema also welcomed his return to Botswana after previously facing a 13-year travel restriction.
He had been accused of attempting to encourage regime change in the country. The restriction was lifted in 2024.
Malema told delegates that he was happy to return and enjoy Botswana’s natural environment after years of being unable to enter the country.
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