Julius Malema EFF Surges to 27% in Buffalo City: Ipsos Poll (Local Government Elections 4 November 2026)

A recent Ipsos poll conducted ahead of the 2026 local government elections has revealed a significant surge in support for the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, with the party now polling at 27%.

The data indicates a highly competitive landscape in the metro, with the Democratic Alliance (DA) leading at 33% and the African National Congress (ANC) trailing at 29%.

The shift in voter sentiment suggests that coalition negotiations will be critical in determining the future leadership of Buffalo City, as no single party currently holds an outright majority.

Political analysts suggest that the rise of the EFF in this region reflects broader national trends where the party is increasingly positioning itself as a kingmaker in key metropolitan areas. The upcoming elections, scheduled for 4 November 2026, are expected to be among the most contested in the country’s history.