Julius Malema’s EFF Surges to 27% in Buffalo City: Ipsos Poll

A recent Ipsos poll has revealed that the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), led by Julius Malema, have surged to 27% support in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality ahead of South Africa’s 4 November 2026 Local Government Elections.

According to the latest research, the EFF’s support is notably concentrated in this region, reaching a level substantially higher than in other metropolitan areas. This performance positions the party as a significant contender in the upcoming municipal race.

The EFF is making notable inroads in Mpumalanga and the Eastern Cape and continues to perform well in Limpopo.

The findings highlight that Buffalo City, alongside other key metros like Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, and Nelson Mandela Bay, remains a highly competitive battleground. While the ANC and DA continue to be the leading parties in most metros, the EFF’s growth in Buffalo City suggests a shifting political landscape in the Eastern Cape.

The party has already signaled its intent to challenge for leadership in the region, having previously announced Mkhululi Dlevu as its mayoral candidate for the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.