Malema calls on nation to reflect on true meaning of freedom

JOHANNESBURG - Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called on the nation to reflect on the true meaning of freedom, and the need to achieve economic justice as the country marks 31 years since the first post-apartheid elections.

The red berets held their Freedom Day rally in Brandfort in the Free State on Sunday, and have used the commemoration to call attention to the plight of South Africans who continue to suffer injustices despite the end of apartheid.

When Julius Malema took to the stage, he fired up his supporters with chants of “down with Ramaphosa!”

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He also criticised the African National Congress (ANC), accusing it of failing South Africans, more than 30 years into democracy.

Malema also called out the lack of justice for anti-apartheid leaders like Steve Biko and Chris Hani, saying their sacrifices have not been fully honoured, as millions of people still face economic hardship under an ANC-led government.

The EFF leader says the struggle is far from over and that true freedom can only be achieved through economic liberation.

"When we say we are free, we must ask ourselves, where is the quality free education that we were promised before. What is freedom without justice?"