Julius Malema’s EFF surges to 27% in unexpected municipality, claims latest poll

A recent Ipsos poll has revealed a significant surge in support for the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, with the party reaching 27% ahead of the upcoming local government elections on November 4, 2026.

The findings, which highlight the shifting political landscape in South Africa’s key metros, suggest that the EFF is now in a strong competitive position within the region. While support for the party varies across different metropolitan areas, the 27% figure in Buffalo City is noted as being substantially higher than in other parts of the country.

The EFF is polling at 27% in Buffalo City ahead of South Africa’s 4 November Local Government Elections, according to the latest Ipsos Pulse of the People study.

The Ipsos research, which involved interviews with 3,600 South Africans nationally between June and July 2026, indicates that Buffalo City remains a critical battleground. However, the report also includes a note of caution, stating that results for specific metros like Buffalo City, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Mangaung should be interpreted with care due to relatively small sample sizes in those areas.

As the November 4 elections approach, the ANC and DA continue to be the leading parties in most metros, with Johannesburg, Ekurhuleni, Nelson Mandela Bay, and Buffalo City identified as particularly competitive races. The EFF’s performance in Buffalo City marks a notable development in the lead-up to the polls.