The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has announced that members must hold post-matric qualifications to serve on its Central Command Team (CCT), the party’s highest decision-making body between conferences. The proposal comes ahead of their third National People’s Assembly starting Thursday at Nasrec Expo Centre.

The policy amendment forms part of broader organizational reforms as the party, currently holding 9% electoral support, aims to strengthen its political position in South Africa.

“This requirement will ensure CCT members can articulate coherent ideas and deliver well-structured presentations about the party’s direction,” the EFF said in a statement regarding the new educational mandate.

The four-day assembly will elect new leadership positions, including president, deputy president, secretary general, deputy secretary general, treasurer, and national chair, alongside 40 CCT members.

The qualification requirement, first introduced five years ago, has given party members time to obtain necessary credentials if they aspired to leadership positions.

Delegates at the National People’s Assembly will review and revise party policies and constitution, with the education requirement being one of several proposed changes under consideration.

The EFF, known as the “red berets,” has consistently advocated for higher education among its membership, viewing it as crucial for effective party leadership and governance.

This policy shift aligns with the party’s broader strategy to professionalize its leadership structure as it seeks to expand its influence in South African politics.