Political Feud Escalates: ANCYL President Malatji Criticizes EFF's Corruption Allegations

In a sharply contentious turn of events, ANC Youth League (ANCYL) President Collen Malatji has vehemently criticized the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), following their formal complaint to the Public Protector about ANCYL Treasurer-General Zwelo Masilela’s qualifications. This complaint arose after revelations during Masilela’s interview for a board position at the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA), where he admitted to holding a senior role in a Mpumalanga municipality without possessing any post-matric qualifications.

The controversy deepened during a parliamentary portfolio committee session, where EFF youth leader Sihle Lonzi interrogated Masilela. Lonzi's inquiries prompted broader questions about meritocracy and transparency within significant government appointments. Following this session, in a press briefing, Malatji strongly defended Masilela and shifted focus onto the EFF and its leader, Julius Malema, highlighting past allegations of corruption against them.

ANCYL president Collen Malatji has defended the league's treasurer Zwelo Masilela after revelations that he worked as a senior researcher in a municipality in MP for 5 years without a post matric qualification,saying "it's nothing new and it happens all the time" @mailandguardian pic.twitter.com/DW17cKhFlf

— Lunga_mzangwe (@lunga_mzangwe) February 27, 2025

Malatji argued that Masilela's role was politically appointed and subject to frequent positional changes beyond his control, defending his integrity and transparency during the interview process. He stated, “Zwelo did declare his lack of formal qualifications, which is more than what is often seen in politics."

Additionally, Malatji raised accusations regarding the EFF’s management of municipalities, asserting a pattern of governance failure under their control. By stating the imminent mutual legal actions between the two parties, he underscored an anticipated escalation in this political rivalry.

Meanwhile, the EFF persists in its stance. Speaking to The Citizen, Lonzi described Masilela’s appointment as a glaring example of systemic corruption, undermining the prospects of qualified individuals in South Africa.

The fallout from this altercation underscores profound issues within the country's political framework, particularly revolving around the integrity of appointments in youth development sectors and the persistent shadow of alleged corruption. It also highlights the volatility and factionalism prevalent in South Africa's political landscape, with significant implications for governance and public trust.