THOHOYANDOU — The quiet streets of Vhembe turned into a noisy political battle zone on Saturday, 25 July 2026. Two political heavyweights locked horns in a fierce showdown just a short drive apart.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) took over Thohoyandou Stadium to celebrate their 13th anniversary and launch their 2026 local government election manifesto. Only 7.8 kilometres away, the African National Congress (ANC) hosted its own major event at Makwarela Stadium, called the “Honouring Mandela’s Legacy Rally.”
While the EFF rally kicked off at 12:00 PM, the ANC gathering started later at 14:00 PM. The ANC event opened with a formal welcome and endorsement by Thovhele Gole Musiiwa Mphaphuli. As the paramount traditional leader of the Mphaphuli Royal House, he presides over the VhaVenda people in the Vhembe District of Limpopo. His blessing gave the ruling party a strong cultural boost right at the start of the afternoon.
Sparks Fly Over Venue Choices and Alliance Snubs
The close distance between the two venues caused anger long before party leaders took to their microphones.
EFF leaders openly accused the ANC of pure political jealousy. Red shirt supporters claimed the ruling party deliberately planned its event on the exact same day, right next door, to sabotage and distract from the EFF’s milestone 13th anniversary.
Meanwhile, internal cracks inside the ruling alliance also took centre stage at the ANC rally. The long-standing Tripartite Alliance hit a major roadblock during the delivery of official messages of support. The South African Communist Party (SACP), a historical ally of the ANC, was left completely out of the programme. This snub came as a direct result of the SACP’s recent resolution to contest elections independently.
Addressing the large audience without batting an eyelid, ANC Provincial Chairperson Dr. Phophi Ramathuba stood firm. She declared to the crowd that the ANC is the true home of the ANC, insisting that this reality is not going to change anytime soon.
Financial Lifelines Promised for Local Councils
The ANC rally also brought major financial news for struggling municipalities across the province.
Enoch Godongwana, Minister of Finance and ANC National Executive Committee member, stepped up to thank the province for the well-attended gathering. During his address, he revealed crucial financial relief for local government structures.
Godongwana announced that municipalities that recently had their equitable share funds withheld will be offered relief starting this Tuesday. However, he emphasized that this financial assistance will come under strict conditions to ensure transparency, accountability, and better municipal management moving forward.
Big Stages, Free Food, and Local Joy
Despite the bitter political fighting and heavy rhetoric, local residents treated the day like a massive festival. Many locals admitted they wished political parties brought this level of energy, excitement, and free perks every single day.
Both stadiums spared no expense to impress the thousands in attendance:
*Massive Stage Designs: Gigantic LED screens, massive sound setups, and colourful party banners transformed both sports grounds into world-class event arenas.
*Free Food and Entertainment: Attendees at both venues enjoyed free meals, cold drinks, and live musical performances from top local artists.
*Political Promises: Supporters received a heavy dose of fiery speeches, promises of municipal fixes, and free party t-shirts.
Malema Unveils Mayoral Candidates at Thohoyandou
Across town at Thohoyandou Stadium, EFF President and Commander-in-Chief Julius Malema addressed a roaring crowd of red berets. The impressive stage featured giant posters of Malema along with national flags and the official EFF emblem.
Malema used the platform to launch his party’s local government strategy and unveil key mayoral candidates for major cities. Most of these top leadership spots were awarded to trusted leaders drawn directly from the Central Command Team of the party.
In a headline announcement, EFF Limpopo Provincial Chairperson Lawrence Mapoulo was introduced as the Mayor-Elect for Polokwane City. Mapoulo is a familiar figure to local voters, having previously served in top municipal leadership back when he was still a member of the ANC.
Malema told his energetic crowd that the red movement remains completely unstoppable. He urged every supporter present to register to vote and prepare for a decisive victory in the upcoming elections.
A Golden Day for Vhembe Residents
While party leaders traded sharp political insults and rolled out candidate lists, ordinary citizens in Thohoyandou enjoyed every moment of the drama. Taxis were packed to capacity, street vendors did booming business selling food and party memorabilia, and the overall atmosphere felt electric.
For local residents, the clash brought high-quality entertainment, free meals, and a front-row seat to South Africa’s fiery democracy.
As the sun set over Vhembe, both political parties claimed ultimate victory in crowd attendance and political power. However, the real test will come when voters head to the ballot boxes to decide who truly holds authority in Limpopo.