VIDEO: EFF looks to ward victories to rebuild trust in eThekwini

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are optimistic that their early results in the eThekwini municipal elections indicate a reversal in their declining support, as they seek to rebuild voter trust. Despite polling at just 1.94% of the votes by Thursday afternoon, EFF spokesperson Brian Blouse stated that the preliminary results suggest the party has managed to halt further losses in support.

Blouse explained that the primary goal was to stop the decline in support and ascertain whether the party had stopped losing votes or had merely stabilized its performance.

Having won several wards, including Ward 1 and Ward 6, in various municipalities, the EFF aims to demonstrate its capacity to govern effectively. The victories are seen as a chance to rebuild public confidence and regain the trust of voters. Blouse acknowledged that while the EFF had done its best to communicate its message to communities, especially among young voters, a trust deficit still exists.

Many voters are still questioning whether the party can translate its activism and political promises into effective governance.

Blouse emphasized that gaining voters' confidence would require time and that the party is not entitled to their support. He affirmed that the EFF understands the need to earn trust, stating that they will continue working towards this goal. The party hopes that having councillors and the opportunity to participate in governance will allow them to showcase their approach to service delivery, ultimately using their performance in the municipalities as a foundation for rebuilding public trust.