In an audacious move that has both alarmed and intrigued residents of Ekurhuleni, Gauteng, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party has launched an unconventional campaign, painting the city red—literally. Early Wednesday morning, the communities of Katlehong and Tembisa awoke to a bewildering sight: street lights and trees adorned with red flags and clothes, and buildings, bridges, both public and private, vandalized with red paint. This dramatic transformation has ignited a flurry of speculation, fear, and controversy, stirring a heated debate about political expression and public space.
Cult or Campaign? Residents in Disarray
The sudden appearance of red flags and paint caused initial confusion among the local populace, with some speculating the involvement of a cult or religious group. However, the mystery unraveled when EFF councillor Julius Mdluli took to social media, claiming responsibility for the red tide sweeping through the streets of Ekurhuleni. “These are EFF flags,” Mdluli stated emphatically. “We are painting the country red, even the trees, from the airport to everywhere.” His justification for the anonymity of the flags—that branding them with EFF logos would be prohibitively expensive and invite vandalism—did little to quell the ensuing uproar.
Legal Threats and Public Outcry
The campaign has not gone without its detractors. Several residents of Katlehong took matters into their own hands, removing and burning the flags in an act of defiance, followed by communal prayers. Mdluli’s response was swift and severe, threatening legal action against those who dare to remove the flags and singling out a woman who burned one, accusing her of acting “like Deputy Jesus.”
City’s Response: A Balance Between Law and Election Fever
The City of Ekurhuleni, represented by spokesperson Zweli Dlamini, expressed shock and disapproval at the campaign’s disregard for public property and city by-laws prohibiting unauthorized advertising. Despite the election season, the city has refrained from linking these acts directly to any political party, pending further investigation.
Social Media Buzz: A Call to Action
Amidst the controversy, social media has been abuzz with hashtags like #PaintGautengRed and #EFFGautengManifestoLaunch, with EFF supporters rallying to “fill up” Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto for the party’s Gauteng Provincial Manifesto launch. The campaign, while controversial, has undeniably succeeded in capturing the public’s attention, sparking a conversation on the lengths to which political parties will go to make a statement.
As Ekurhuleni grapples with the aftermath of this unprecedented campaign, the EFF’s bold tactics have set the stage for a contentious election season. The incident underscores the complex interplay between political expression, public order, and the rights of communities, leaving a lasting impression on the political landscape of Gauteng.
