EFF at 10: Battling claims of cult-like leadership, corruption
As the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) count down to the big celebration on Saturday, the party's critics continue to doubt its leaders’ sincerity.
Although many South Africans have praised the EFF for its action against the government, others continue to label it a political cult in the service of its leader Julius Malema.
This was again evident when the party published names of public representatives who failed to arrange transport for members who wanted to attend the party's birthday rally.
The public representatives have also been banned from attending the celebrations.
The decision caused divisions on social media, with many defending councillors already paying monthly party levies and are required to own bakkies.
VBS
The party has been in the spotlight for allegedly benefiting from the VBS Mutual Bank collapse.
When the party held its elective conference in 2019, the party’s treasurer-general Leigh-Anne Mathys had to defend criticism that the conference was funded by money stolen from the now-defunct VBS Mutual Bank.
CELEBRATIONS
The party held various celebrations in a build-up to the main events, including donations to orphanages, the launch of a stage play Leruo, art exhibitions and a music album.
Malema said the anniversary rally will be an occasion to be celebrated by all sectors of society.
On Thursday evening, the party held a gala dinner at Emperors Palace Hotel in Kempton Park on Thursday evening.
The gala dinner was attended by Marikana massacre widows, students from the writing competition, families of party leaders, and guests who bought tickets.
This was followed by an event with the diplomatic community at the Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria on Friday morning, while the big celebration are set to take place at FNB Stadium on Saturday.
