‘No-one can control us’: Malema clashes with Hill-Lewis during leadership debate
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis engaged in a heated exchange during a leadership debate organized by Arena Holdings on October 1, 2026.
During the debate, Malema vehemently defended his party against allegations of corruption and instability within coalition governments. He challenged his critics to provide evidence of wrongdoing, asserting that the party remains untainted by criminal charges related to public office.
No-one can control us. Since the EFF was founded, none of its members or leaders has been convicted or charged with corruption in connection with holding office.
Geordin Hill-Lewis, representing the DA, countered these claims by accusing the EFF of being a disruptive force in coalition governance. He argued that the party’s conduct has led to instability and mismanagement in various municipalities where they have held influence.
The debate highlighted the growing tensions between the two political figures as they navigate the complex landscape of South African coalition politics ahead of future electoral cycles.