Tensions Flare as EFF and ANC Battle for Control of Polokwane’s Ward 13

With Malema and Mpe on the ground, today’s by-election is more than a local vote, it’s a test of political dominance in Limpopo.

The red berets and green-yellow-black stripes are out in full force as Ward 13 heads to the polls today in a by-election that has quickly escalated into a high-stakes turf war between the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the African National Congress (ANC).

At the centre of it all are two competing candidates: the EFF’s Mongatane Ramaphoko and the ANC’s Mokgadi Boloko, squaring off in what has historically been considered EFF heartland.

Why the Seat is Up for Grabs

This battle was triggered by the expulsion of former EFF councillor Mafiwa Leballo, who was removed from office after allegedly missing eight consecutive council meetings, a breach that created a political vacuum in a ward long seen as a red stronghold.

The question now: Will the EFF retain its grip, or is the ANC poised to snatch back ground?

Big Names Join the Fray

Both parties are pulling out their big guns. EFF leader Julius Malema has been stomping the ground in Limpopo, making sure his party’s presence is felt in every corner of Ward 13.

On the other side, Polokwane mayor Makoro John Mpe has been vocally championing the ANC’s candidate, dismissing EFF’s hold on the ward as shaky.

“There are not two bulls in the kraal,” Mpe told supporters on Monday. “It goes without saying that the ANC… is going to win this election.”

Mpe pointed to the ANC’s record on housing delivery and public services, claiming the party had restored dignity to people’s lives.

EFF: “You Can’t Campaign With Government Work”

The EFF, however, is not backing down. Limpopo EFF chair Lawrence Mapoulo hit back, arguing that public services aren’t ANC favours, they are constitutional rights.

“Government services are for all people, not just for the ANC to campaign with,” Mapoulo said, calling the ruling party’s campaign tactics manipulative.

He also used the moment to remind residents of the EFF’s own grassroots impact, particularly among the elderly. Mapoulo claimed the party had helped pensioners get beds, and promised to provide fridges to those who register with the party.

Community Response: “This Is EFF Territory”

Among some Ward 13 residents, there’s little confusion about where their loyalties lie.

“This is the home of the EFF,” said Jacob Selematsela, a local resident. “I’m baffled that the ANC is canvassing here.”

Others, however, are reportedly open to new leadership, especially younger voters and those frustrated by inconsistent service delivery and factionalism within local governance.

What’s at Stake?

Beyond just a single seat, the Ward 13 vote is symbolic. It’s a litmus test for the EFF’s staying power in Limpopo and for the ANC, a rare shot at reclaiming a foothold in enemy territory.

Both parties know the outcome here will shape narratives ahead of future provincial and national elections, especially with internal ANC challenges and Malema’s EFF seeking to expand influence.

As residents cast their votes today, the atmosphere is charged and symbolic. Ward 13 may be a small geographic area, but its political weight has drawn national attention.

Whether it stays red or turns green will not just be a matter of votes, but a sign of which party still speaks loudest to the frustrations, hopes, and daily struggles of ordinary South Africans.

{Source: The Citizen}

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