Disparate Opposition takes Center Stage
The vexed issue of who will control South Africa’s richest and most symbolic Metropolitan Municipalities including Tshwane and Johannesburg became clearer in dual announcements by the major opposition protagonists, the EFF and DA.
Malema attempted to take a moral high ground forswearing the temptation of positions for a more critical and confrontational role on the Opposition benches. Clearly, the twin ‘devils’ of the ANC left him little choice but to opt for a lesser role – although one he sees as being critical to the passing of any budget and associated policy-making.
Malema did, however, confirm the deep personal disdain he has for President Zuma. For all the other unrealistic demands he placed at the front door of the ANC to dangle the carrot of an EFF/ANC partnership, it was the Zuma factor that seems to be the critical stumbling block in restoring the familial links.
This level of animosity is so great, that Malema was willing to accede to broader Opposition growth led by the DA and in so doing, was keen to shut out the ANC from most hung councils – especially in the prized Tshwane, Ekurhuleni and potentially City of Johannesburg.
Malema took full advantage of his announcement. His choice of location – on a dusty field in impoverished Alexandra had an air of fine movie direction to it. And whilst the visuals played to his constituency, so did his message. His characteristic defiance was vintage Malema.