Introduction
In the dynamic and often volatile political landscape of South Africa, few figures have attracted as much attention, controversy, and criticism as Julius Malema. As the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Malema has risen to prominence with fiery rhetoric, populist messaging, and a combative political style. However, his rise has not been without consequence. Over the years, Julius Malema has been embroiled in countless incidents involving unlawful conduct, unprofessional behavior, incitement, and an alarming disregard for democratic norms and the rule of law.
This article explores the numerous instances of Julius Malema’s misconduct, analyzes the dangers posed by his divisive politics, and outlines the compelling reasons why there is a growing call for South African authorities and civil society to take robust and lawful measures to tame his influence before the country’s social and political fabric is irreparably damaged.
Julius Malema: A Brief Background
Julius Sello Malema was born on March 3, 1981, in Seshego, Limpopo province. He first emerged on the national political scene as the president of the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL). At a young age, he became known for his passionate speeches and militant style. However, his tenure at the ANCYL was cut short due to disciplinary issues, which eventually led to his expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC) in 2012.
Undeterred, Malema went on to found the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in 2013. Since then, the EFF has grown into one of South Africa’s most influential opposition parties, attracting millions of followers, especially among the youth. Despite the popularity, Malema’s political journey has been marred by a long list of controversies.
Unlawful and Unprofessional Behavior: A Chronic Pattern
1. Incitement to Violence
One of the most troubling aspects of Julius Malema’s conduct is his habitual incitement to violence. On several occasions, Malema has made inflammatory statements that encourage public unrest, xenophobia, and even outright violence against specific groups.
a. Xenophobic Remarks
Malema has openly blamed immigrants, particularly from other African countries, for South Africa’s socio-economic problems. In 2022, he was widely criticized for comments suggesting that foreign nationals were taking jobs from South African citizens. Such rhetoric fuels xenophobic violence, which has already resulted in deaths, injuries, and displacement of foreign nationals in various provinces.
b. Calls to “Kill the Boer”
Malema has also stirred outrage by reviving the apartheid-era slogan “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer.” While he and his defenders claim it is metaphorical, the reality is that such slogans incite hatred and violence against white farmers. South Africa, already grappling with racial tensions, cannot afford the kind of social disintegration this rhetoric inspires.
2. Contempt for the Judiciary
Malema has repeatedly shown open disdain for South Africa’s judicial institutions. He has publicly attacked judges, questioned the integrity of the courts, and refused to accept judicial decisions that do not align with his personal or political agenda.
In 2020, Malema lashed out at the Constitutional Court and accused certain judges of corruption without presenting evidence. Such statements undermine public confidence in the judiciary, which is a cornerstone of democratic governance. Malema’s contempt for the courts sets a dangerous precedent and threatens the rule of law.
3. Disruption of Parliamentary Proceedings
Julius Malema and members of the EFF have turned the South African Parliament into a battleground. Their frequent disruptions, heckling, and outright refusal to follow parliamentary rules have made it difficult for democratic processes to function smoothly.
In February 2015, EFF MPs disrupted President Jacob Zuma’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), demanding that he “pay back the money” used to upgrade his private Nkandla residence. While raising legitimate issues, the manner in which Malema and his cohort operated was aggressive, theatrical, and violated the decorum expected in Parliament.
Subsequent SONA sessions have often devolved into chaos, with the EFF using Parliament as a stage for protest rather than legislation. This ongoing disruption delegitimizes the democratic institution and erodes public respect for governance structures.
4. Hate Speech and Racism
Julius Malema’s track record includes numerous instances of hate speech and racially inflammatory remarks. His divisive language alienates communities and deepens South Africa’s historical wounds.
a. Anti-White Sentiments
Malema frequently targets white South Africans with inflammatory language, often labeling them as oppressors, thieves, and illegitimate beneficiaries of apartheid. While it is crucial to address the injustices of apartheid, demonizing an entire racial group only deepens division and fosters resentment.
b. Racial Exclusivism
Malema’s ideological stance often promotes racial exclusivity. He has advocated for the redistribution of land and wealth solely based on race, without considering merit, economic stability, or social cohesion. This approach lacks nuance and could plunge the country into economic ruin.
Legal Troubles and Allegations of Corruption
Despite his anti-corruption rhetoric, Julius Malema himself has faced several allegations of corruption, fraud, and misuse of public funds.
1. On-Point Engineering Scandal
Malema has been linked to the On-Point Engineering scandal, in which a company linked to him secured a R52 million contract with the Limpopo Department of Roads and Transport under suspicious circumstances. Investigations suggested that Malema benefited financially from the deal, raising questions about his commitment to ethical governance.
2. VBS Mutual Bank Collapse
In 2018, the scandal involving the collapse of VBS Mutual Bank implicated several political figures, including individuals associated with Malema and the EFF. Reports by investigative journalists alleged that Malema’s inner circle received illicit funds from the looted bank. While Malema denied direct involvement, the cloud of suspicion still hangs heavily over him and his party.
The Dangerous Consequences of Malema’s Conduct
Julius Malema’s behavior is not just problematic—it is perilous for South Africa’s democracy and social cohesion. Below are some of the key risks posed by his unchecked conduct:
1. Erosion of Democratic Institutions
By repeatedly undermining the judiciary, attacking the press, and disregarding parliamentary procedure, Malema weakens the very institutions that uphold democracy. When public trust in these institutions erodes, society becomes more vulnerable to authoritarianism, anarchy, and political instability.
2. Social Polarization
Malema’s populist tactics exploit the economic desperation of South Africans, especially the youth. Instead of uniting the country around shared goals, he fans the flames of racial and class divisions. This strategy may yield short-term political gain but causes long-term societal damage.
3. Violence and Unrest
The EFF’s combative politics have often spilled into physical confrontations. In 2023, for example, EFF members clashed with law enforcement during unauthorized protests. Malema’s inflammatory rhetoric has also inspired followers to take the law into their own hands, leading to riots and assaults.
4. Damage to Investor Confidence
Malema’s calls for expropriation without compensation, nationalization of mines, and anti-business rhetoric scare away investors. In a country already facing economic challenges, such views can deter much-needed foreign direct investment and worsen unemployment and poverty.
The Case for Robustly Taming Julius Malema
There is an urgent need to confront Malema’s misconduct with the full weight of the law and public accountability. Below are actionable recommendations for robustly and legally taming his destructive influence:
1. Enforce the Law Without Fear or Favor
The South African legal system must be empowered to investigate and prosecute all instances of unlawful conduct, regardless of political status. If Malema or any public figure violates the law—be it hate speech, incitement to violence, or corruption—they must be held accountable in court.
2. Strengthen Parliamentary Rules
Parliament must adopt stricter codes of conduct and enforce existing ones to prevent disruptions and maintain decorum. Persistent offenders should face suspension or expulsion. The sanctity of democratic institutions must be protected at all costs.
3. Enhance Oversight on Public Funding of Political Parties
Given the corruption scandals surrounding Malema and the EFF, there must be enhanced transparency and accountability in political party financing. Robust auditing and real-time reporting of political donations can deter illicit financial flows and ensure clean politics.
4. Promote Civic Education
South Africans must be educated on the importance of democratic norms, peaceful activism, and the rule of law. Malema thrives on discontent and misinformation. A well-informed electorate is less likely to fall for populist propaganda and more likely to engage constructively in democracy.
5. Empower Independent Media and Civil Society
The media and civil society organizations play a vital role in exposing misconduct and holding politicians accountable. They must be supported in their mission to investigate, report, and advocate for ethical governance without fear of retribution.
Conclusion
Julius Malema has become a polarizing figure in South African politics—not because he addresses unimportant issues, but because of how he addresses them. His unlawful and unprofessional behavior not only erodes the country’s democratic institutions but also threatens social stability and economic progress.
While South Africa must remain committed to free speech, political plurality, and the democratic process, it must also recognize the danger of allowing rogue political actors to operate without consequence. The time has come for South Africa to robustly tame Julius Malema—not through violence or censorship, but through the power of law, institutional reform, and an awakened civil society.
Only then can South Africa continue its journey toward a truly inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous