Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema is mobilising party members to protest against the continued existence of Orania, a whites-only town in South Africa. Malema argues that the Afrikaner enclave undermines national unity and upholds apartheid-era ideologies.
Orania, situated in the Northern Cape, was established in 1963 on private land and is home to approximately 3,000 residents. The town is fully self-sustaining, with its own schools, hospitals, businesses, currency (the Ora), and even a registered bank. Afrikaans is the only language spoken and taught in the community.
On Friday, 11 April, Malema met with representatives from the Orania Movement and the Freedom Front Plus to challenge the government’s position on Orania’s right to self-determination.
However, the discussions ended without resolution. Following the meeting, Malema vowed to lead a march to the office of Northern Cape Premier Zamani Saul in Kimberley on 22 April.
EFF Northern Cape Chairperson Shadrack Tlhaole reaffirmed the party’s stance, stating that both black and white South Africans must confront the implications of Orania’s existence. He insisted the march would go ahead as planned, calling for the dismantling of the town and rejecting its legitimacy.
In contrast, Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie has expressed support for Orania. During a 2023 visit, McKenzie met with local leaders and praised the town’s organisation and cleanliness.
In a detailed post on X (formerly Twitter), he noted that the town does not allow black South Africans or LGBTQ individuals to live there, citing a desire to preserve Afrikaner culture.
He also highlighted that Orania operates with its own businesses, currency, and institutions, all functioning independently. Despite its small population, the town maintains advanced financial systems and a high level of self-reliance.
The looming EFF march underscores growing tensions over race, cultural identity, and constitutional rights in post-apartheid South Africa.
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