EFF statement on the 68th anniversary of the adoption of the Freedom Charter
26 June 2023
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) commemorates the 68th anniversary of the adoption of the Freedom Charter. We pay tribute to the historic document that encapsulates the aspirations, struggles and desires of the South African people.
The EFF recognises the visionary leaders who, on this day in 1955, gathered in Kliptown to proclaim the principles that would shape our future. The Freedom Charter's call for land redistribution, nationalisation of key industries, and the guarantee of basic human rights for all remains a guiding light as we continue the struggle for economic freedom and genuine liberation.
Despite the promises and commitments outlined in the Freedom Charter, economic inequality, poverty, and the marginalisation of the majority still persist. The ruling party's betrayal of the land redistribution principle outlined in the Freedom Charter is a glaring reality.
Initially rejecting the EFF's call for land expropriation without compensation, our first cardinal principle, the ruling party has since attempted to dilute this radical measure intended to rectify the injustices of colonialism. In doing so, they have perpetuated the control of white- monopoly capital over the means of production, undermining the genuine pursuit of economic transformation and social justice.
The EFF's second non-negotiable cardinal pillar is dedicated to the crucial objective of nationalising mines, banks, and other strategic sectors of our economy. This aligns perfectly with the resounding call of the Freedom Charter, which boldly proclaims, "The mineral wealth beneath the soil, the banks, and monopoly industry shall be transferred to the ownership of the people as a whole."
This resolute demand for economic justice and collective ownership was not only championed by the EFF but also embraced by former President Nelson Mandela, a figure celebrated by liberals and even right-wing factions today. Mandela's recognition of the imperative need for nationalisation underscores the broad consensus across the political spectrum regarding the significance of economic transformation and empowering the masses.
Regrettably, the noble call for the democratisation of wealth is today undermined and distorted by the ANC government, as the interests of multinational mining cartels and white monopoly capital take precedence over the well-being of the African people. This manipulation of the economic agenda serve to perpetuate the unjust control of wealth and resources, hindering the realisation of genuine economic empowerment and equitable distribution.
Undoubtedly, through its 7 Non-Negotiable Cardinal Pillars, the EFF today sits as the as the true custodian of the Freedom Charter.
The EFF's further commitment to the principles of the Freedom Charter is exemplified by our resolute call for free medical care and hospitalisation for all, echoing the Charter's vision of accessible healthcare for every South African. Recognising the stark disparities between private and public healthcare, we have advocated for the operation of clinics 24 hours a day and the eradication of the glaring discrepancies that exist in our healthcare system.
We reaffirm our commitment to economic justice, the equitable distribution of wealth, and the restoration of the land to its rightful owners. We advocate for free quality education, and access to healthcare.
The principles enshrined in the Freedom Charter, and radically interpreted by the EFF, remain the foundation upon which the EFF will build a society that truly represents the interests of all South Africans.
Issued by Sinawo Thambo, National Spokesperson, EFF, 26 June 2023
