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The EFF has pledged to address South Africa's stark inequality, promising that once in power, those living outside of prison will no longer be subjected to worse conditions than those incarcerated.
This vow was made by EFF leader Julius Malema during a Freedom Day rally at Alexandra Stadium on Saturday, where he addressed a crowd of thousands.
The stadium was packed with mostly young people dressed in their signature red attire, eager to hear their leader's message.
The event began with a solemn rendition of the country's national anthem, "Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrica" (God Bless Africa), sung with passion and pride by the crowd.
As the last notes of the anthem faded away, the stadium erupted into cheers and chants, setting the tone for an energetic and lively rally.
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The event featured performances by local artists, adding to the excitement.
Meanwhile, in Pretoria, President Cyril Ramaphosa was leading the national commemoration of Freedom Day at the Union Buildings, marking 30 years since the country's first democratic elections in 1994.
The event was a solemn reminder of the nation's journey towards democracy and freedom.
As Malema took the stage in Alexandra, he highlighted the struggles and triumphs of the past three decades.
He emphasised the need for continued fight against inequality, poverty and unemployment, resonating with the youth who make up a significant portion of the EFF's support base.
Malema highlighted the stark contrast between the conditions in Alexandra and those in prisons saying:
Malema highlighted a situation where prisoners enjoy access to basic necessities such as food, flushing toilets and education, while innocent residents of Alexandra are denied these same rights.
According to Malema, the township's dilapidated state is a result of the ANC's corruption and neglect. He alleged that the governing party has stolen billions, leaving Alexandra in a state of disrepair.
He derisively referred to Ramaphosa as a "tsotsi with a big nose", who allegedly has no understanding of the struggles faced by the people of Alexandra.
He emphasised that the EFF is committed to addressing the issues that matter most to the community, like the Alexandra clinic, which operates during the day only and also lacks proper medication.
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Malema accused the Alexandra police of colluding with drug lords.
"The drugs that plague our streets are transported by police vehicles, we will put an end to this corruption and ensure our streets are safe," he said.
Malema directed his attention to the City of Johannesburg, denouncing the prevalent corruption and sexual exploitation he claims is rampant in the city.
Malema said:
Malema's speech took a different turn as he highlighted the EFF's plan to address the issue of temporary jobs.
He said they will change Nasi iSpani initiative in Gauteng, led by Premier Panyaza Lesufi to be permanent jobs - not just temporary positions that keep them in poverty.
He emphasised that jobs should be given to anyone who is a citizen, regardless of their political affiliation.
He also addressed the issue of social grants, acknowledging that they are not a permanent solution to poverty, they merely provide temporary relief, but do not address the root causes of poverty.
He noted that the real solution lies in education, empowering people with skills and knowledge to break the cycle of poverty.
However, he also acknowledged the immediate needs of the most vulnerable, saying they understand that elderly and those in need require support now.
“That's why we will increase the old age grant to R4 000, to ensure our seniors can live with dignity,” he said.
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He proposed that social relief grant of distress grant be implemented, with those without matric receiving R370, those with matric receiving R1 000 and graduates receiving R4 000.
Malema proposed a radical solution to fund the EFF's promises saying:
According to him, this will save billions of rand, which they will then invest in education, healthcare and job creation.
In contrast, Ramaphosa's address at the Union Buildings focused on reflecting on the progress made since 1994 and outlining the government's plans to address the country's ongoing challenges.
