Less than a third of South Africans would support an EFF-MK progressive caucus, confirming limited appetite for a radical parliamentary bloc. This is according to a Social Research Foundation (SRF) poll.

Only 29% of voters support creating a progressive caucus in Parliament led by the EFF and the MK Party. Twenty five percent are open but unconvinced, while 40% say they would never back such an arrangement. The idea polls worst among small town business owners and township micro entrepreneurs. Even among the unemployed, support tops out at 33%.

The data imply that talk of a left-wing super bloc is more media echo than popular wave. South Africans appear wary of ideological experiments that could unsettle fragile growth. For the EFF and MK the numbers pose a strategic choice, moderate rhetoric to broaden appeal or accept marginal status. For the GNU the opportunity is clear.

Delivering on electricity, safety, and jobs could lock in a governing centre while more radical formations chase an electorate that remains stubbornly pragmatic.