Central SA
Free State EFF clarifies ‘2024 is our 1994’ statement, claims victory─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 12:29 Mon, 23 Sep 2024
“They will always say we are the biggest losers – where? Who lost power? Who lost government? Did we have government? We brought them to their knees.”
The EFF in the Free State says it was misunderstood over the statement “2024 is our 1994”, emphasising that the party achieved its main objective during the national elections.
The Red Berets achieved their primary objective in the 2024 general election, despite what some have called a disappointing performance, claimed provincial convenor Thembi Msane.
‘EFF’s mission accomplished’
On 29 May, the ANC support dropped to 40.18%, its lowest share since coming to power in 1994, forcing it to form the government of national unity. The DA showed a modest increase, securing 21.8% compared to 20.77% in the 2019 national elections.
The MK Party, a notable new entrant led by former Pres. Jacob Zuma, managed to surpass the EFF, claiming 14.59% of the vote. In contrast, the EFF’s share fell to 9.25%, down from 10.79%.
Speaking at the EFF Student Command’s Heritage Month Commemoration at the University of the Free State over the weekend, Msane argued that the party’s mission had been accomplished despite a drop in support.
“When we said 2024 is our 1994, people misunderstood. They resold us again like they did in 1994,” Msane explained. “As the EFF, we’ve achieved what we wanted. They will always say we are the biggest losers – where?
“Who lost power? Who lost government? Did we have government? We brought them to their knees. They’re going around begging, even sleeping with colonisers and settlers. They are the biggest losers, not the EFF.”
‘Young people must protect their indigenous heritage’
Msane criticised the ANC for failing to deliver on land redistribution without compensation, a key issue for the EFF since its formation. She pointed out despite having a strong parliamentary majority in 1994, the ANC hadn’t implemented meaningful land reform, calling its members “sellouts” who distort history.
The EFF’s position on land reform has been central to its political platform. It advocates expropriation without compensation to address historical injustices.
Meanwhile, EFF member Mapheule Liphoko called on young people to protect their indigenous heritage, with a particular emphasis on the preservation of African languages. He stressed that the fight for cultural identity and linguistic heritage should be a priority for South Africa’s youth, especially in the face of modern challenges.
