By localnew 
Xolani Khumalo Slams Malema, Calls EFF “Clowns in Red”
Political tensions are heating up ahead of the 2026 local government elections after Xolani Khumalo publicly criticised Julius Malema and his party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
Khumalo, who is the mayoral candidate for ActionSA in Ekurhuleni, sparked debate on social media when he referred to the EFF as “clowns in red,” questioning the party’s leadership experience. In his remarks, Khumalo suggested that if the EFF’s governance record is considered experience, Malema can keep it.
The comments come amid increasing political competition as parties prepare for the 2026 South African municipal elections, where control of key metros such as Ekurhuleni is expected to be highly contested.
Khumalo rose to national prominence as a television presenter on the crime-focused show Sizok’thola before transitioning into politics. In 2025, ActionSA confirmed him as its mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni, citing his public profile and focus on crime-fighting initiatives as part of the party’s campaign strategy.
His latest remarks have added fuel to the ongoing political rivalry between opposition parties, with analysts noting that public exchanges between political figures are likely to intensify as election campaigns gain momentum.
The EFF, led by Malema, remains one of South Africa’s most influential opposition parties, often advocating for radical economic transformation policies. Meanwhile, ActionSA continues to position itself as an alternative focused on governance reform, anti-corruption measures, and improved service delivery in municipalities.
As political parties gear up for the upcoming elections, strong rhetoric and public criticism are expected to remain part of the campaign landscape, particularly in major metros where coalition governments have previously struggled to maintain stability.