Economic Freedom Fighters Founding Manifesto Notes

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF): Founded on 26-27 July 2013, the EFF is a radical movement advocating for the economic emancipation of South Africans, inspired by historical resistance against colonial oppression.

Historical Context: 350 years of resistance against colonial domination in South Africa, beginning with the Khoi and San people in 1652. Despite political freedoms since 1994, economic freedom remains elusive for the majority of black South Africans.

Current Economic Conditions:

• High unemployment rates (officially 25.2%, expanded 36.7%).
• Persistent poverty, with many living in dire conditions despite political freedoms.
• Economic structures still favor white minority capital, and the black majority remains in economic bondage.

Ideological Foundation: The EFF draws from Marxist-Leninist thought and the Fanonian perspective on colonialism, seeking to address ongoing economic domination and exploitation.

Key Issues Addressed:

• After 20 years of political freedom, the economic status of the black majority has not improved.
• The system remains that of neo-colonialism, where economic power lies with multinational corporations.
• The government has failed to redistribute wealth effectively, leaving high levels of income inequality and poverty.

Core Objectives of the EFF:

1. Expropriation of Land: Land should be nationalized without compensation for equitable redistribution.
2. Nationalization of Key Sectors: Mines, banks, and critical economic sectors should be nationalized to benefit the state and, thereby, the people.
3. Strengthening Government Capacity: Creating a robust state that can manage economic development without reliance on tenders.
4. Universal Access to Quality Services: Free education, healthcare, and quality living conditions for all citizens.
5. Job Creation through Industrial Development: Massive investment in protected industrial development to create millions of jobs and introduce minimum wages.
6. Continental Economic Development: Commitment to developing trade and economic cooperation across Africa.
7. Corruption-Free Governance: Ensure a transparent and accountable state, prioritizing the people’s interest over political corruption.

Pillars for Change:

• Implement systemic changes in governance, economic policies, and social structures to eradicate racism, poverty, and inequality.
• Pursuit of economic justice and empowerment through radical reforms in financial and corporate sectors.

Engagement with People: Emphasis on grassroots movements, encouraging the working class to fight for their rights and engage politically.

Youth and Community Involvement: The movement aims to mobilize young leaders and the community to partake actively in political and socio-economic reforms.

International Outlook: The EFF seeks solidarity with global movements against capitalism and imperialism, pushing for broader economic justice campaigns.

Final Mission Statement: The EFF's overarching goal is achieving economic freedom within the lifetime of its members and for future generations, emphasizing collective struggle and solidarity from all societal sectors.