Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has unleashed a fiery warning against lobby group AfriForum, declaring that if his party ever governs South Africa, it will lock up all AfriForum members. Malema branded the group “terrorists” and “anti-South Africa,” intensifying one of the country’s most polarizing political battles.
Malema’s remarks came outside the East London magistrate’s court, where he appeared for pre-sentencing after being found guilty of:
Unlawful possession of a firearm
Discharging a firearm in a built-up area
Reckless endangerment of people and property
The charges stem from a 2018 EFF rally, where Malema was filmed firing a rifle into the air. AfriForum pursued the case, arguing that his actions endangered lives and violated the law. Sentencing has been postponed to April 15–16, 2026, leaving Malema’s political future hanging in the balance.
Outside court, Malema addressed supporters with his trademark defiance:
“They must pray that the EFF never becomes the government in South Africa because the day it happens, we are going to lock up all AfriForum members.”
He accused AfriForum of weaponizing the judiciary to silence him and vowed to continue fighting for black South Africans, even if it meant prison or death.
Malema then led supporters in chanting the controversial struggle song “Kill the Boer, kill the farmer”, a chant AfriForum has repeatedly tried to ban in court.
AfriForum has sought to outlaw the song in multiple courts, including the Constitutional Court, but judges have consistently ruled that it is part of South Africa’s political expression and heritage.
Malema insists he respects the law but rejects rulings he considers unjust, framing his defiance as part of a broader liberation struggle.
Malema’s remarks have reignited tensions between the EFF and AfriForum, exposing deep divisions over race, land ownership, and political power.
Supporters see Malema as a fearless voice against white minority privilege.
Critics warn his rhetoric fuels racial hostility and undermines democratic institutions.
With sentencing looming, Malema’s strategy appears clear: turn legal battles into political theatre, mobilizing his base through confrontation and populist rhetoric.
The postponed sentencing in April will be a critical moment for Malema and the EFF.
AfriForum has vowed to continue its legal fight, framing Malema’s defiance as proof of lawlessness.
Political analysts warn that the clash could shape South Africa’s political landscape ahead of future elections, with Malema positioning himself as both martyr and revolutionary.
