Malema calls for tolerance in KZN amidst crisis ahead of 2024 polls

ULUNDI – Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has urged for heightened political tolerance in KwaZulu-Natal as the province gears up for the 2024 polls.

Malema’s call for increased tolerance came during the second leg of the voter registration process leading to the upcoming elections.

Speaking to journalists in Ulundi, northern KwaZulu-Natal, Malema emphasized the importance of fostering a peaceful political environment, especially during the election season.

Historically, KwaZulu-Natal has witnessed incidents of political intolerance that sometimes escalate to violence, including deadly shootings.

Despite the region’s past challenges, Malema commended the absence of serious incidents during the first voter registration weekend for the 2024 elections.

He expressed hope for continued peace in subsequent registration periods and emphasized the desire for the upcoming election day to be the most peaceful ever experienced in KwaZulu-Natal.

“We want the highest form of political tolerance, especially in KZN, and we are happy that the first registration, there was no serious incident that occurred,” he stated.

In addition to calling for political tolerance, Malema urged members of the EFF to exhibit high discipline throughout the election period.

The EFF leader acknowledged the importance of maintaining order within the party to contribute to a peaceful electoral process.

During the visit to Zulu King Misuzulu kaZwelithini in Ulundi, Malema pledged the EFF’s support for the reigning monarch.

The party informed the king of its plan to host its manifesto launch in Durban in February 2024.

The outspoken EFF leader described the meeting as a formality to formalize the party’s relationship with the Zulu monarch.

“We also came to congratulate him and pledge our support like we did even before he was officially put on the throne. We were formalizing our relationship,” Malema explained.

Highlighting the party’s visibility in the upcoming elections, Malema indicated that the EFF would actively campaign in KwaZulu-Natal.

The EFF’s manifesto launch is scheduled to take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban in February 2024.

“We will also be here to campaign for the elections, so they must not be shocked when they see the red berets on the streets,” he declared.

“Izinunda and amakhosi (headsmen and chiefs) must be briefed that there is an organization called the EFF which will be going up and down in KZN.”