Step Ahead Productions is rallying behind EFF MP Eugene Mthethwa, calling on the party leader Julius Malema to publicly support him.
The organisation is urging the party to step up and use its national influence to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture while empowering rural and township artists who have long been sidelined.
Step Ahead Productions has since written an open letter to the EFF.
“We wish to extend our sincere appreciation to Eugene Mthethwa for his unwavering commitment and advocacy within the sports, arts, and culture portfolio committee over the years.
“As a true champion of the creative sector, he has courageously addressed critical issues affecting artists, including royalties, equitable funding models, and the protection of creative rights.
“Despite often standing alone in these battles, facing criticism and resistance from certain officials in the department, the minister, and even some cultural organisations benefiting from entrenched and corrupt systems, his advocacy has remained steadfast, principled, and guided by a deep sense of justice.”
The letter reads further: “Regrettably, recent narratives have attempted to discredit Mthethwa’s work, framing it as personal disputes, as was referenced by the minister during a parliamentary response.
“This characterisation is misleading and undermines the genuine struggles of thousands of South African artists who rely on strong leadership in parliament to restore dignity, fairness, and accountability in the creative sector.”
Justice sought for artists
Step Ahead Productions spokesperson William Mafumbu said it is time for Malema to publicly show his support for the creative industry.
“We wrote the letter to request that Malema and the leadership of the EFF publicly support Mthethwa as he continues to fight for the rights of artists,” said Mafumbu.
“We are asking Malema to engage Mthethwa and the creative industry at large on issues affecting artists, both at provincial and national levels.
“We are also asking him to use the collective voice and influence of the EFF to advocate for transparency, fairness, and accountability in the department’s operations, ensuring that future generations of artists do not face the systemic challenges that have historically marginalised them.”
He continued: “Mthethwa’s interventions have rekindled hope among artists who had long felt sidelined.
“With the support of the EFF’s leadership, we firmly believe the arts sector can finally secure the justice, recognition, and sustainable growth it rightfully deserves.”
Mthethwa humbled by recognition
Mthethwa said: “I truly appreciate the letter from these creatives. The recognition of my work humbles me, and I am grateful for it.
“I can also assure people that I am receiving enormous support from the leader of the EFF, its leadership, and its members. In fact, I am in parliament solely because of that support.”
He added that it would be encouraging to see other political parties also advocating for the rights of artists.
EFF spokespersons Sinawo Thambo and Vuyani Pambo were approached for comment but had not responded by the time of publication.
