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Julius Malema Fires Back at Elon Musk Over ‘International Criminal’ Label
South African political firebrand Julius Malema is not backing down after billionaire Elon Musk labelled him an “international criminal” on social media platform X. Instead, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader has doubled down, calling Musk a “spoiled brat” and rejecting any attempts to silence his political stance.
Malema Responds with Defiance
Speaking at the St Paul African Apostolic Church in Johannesburg on 16 February 2025, Malema addressed Musk’s comments directly.
“I have not committed any crime—except to demand the dignity of black people in South Africa,” said Malema, drawing applause from the congregation.
This latest exchange between Malema and Musk follows mounting tensions between the EFF and powerful figures in the United States, including former President Donald Trump.
US and SA Tensions Rise Over Land Reform
Malema also used the moment to speak out against the Executive Order signed by Donald Trump, which controversially granted refugee status to Afrikaners, citing South Africa’s Expropriation Act as grounds for asylum.
“No order from America will stop land expropriation. This land belongs to black South Africans and will be returned,” said Malema.
Trump’s order criticized President Cyril Ramaphosa for signing the Expropriation Act into law, intensifying international scrutiny of South Africa’s land reform policies.
Public Reactions: ‘Africa Will Not Be Bullied’
South Africans have largely rallied behind Malema in the face of international criticism. On the SABC News Facebook page, users expressed their support:
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Mogomotsi Maboe: “CIC Malema and Pres Ramaphosa, we stand with you. South Africa will not be bullied.”
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Egbugwo Iykedan: “The entire continent is behind you.”
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Telang Polile: “When I read this, I see the spirit of unity and hope.”
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Nxassa Phiri Rashy: “Africa will not be a US puppet anymore. We need leadership like Malema and comrade Ramaphosa.”
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Mom’s Favourite: “Not an EFF member but I stand with this brother on this one.”
More Criticism from Malema
This isn’t the first time Malema has made headlines this year. Just days before the church address, he took aim at President Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA), saying it lacked urgency and failed to address pressing national issues.
“Ramaphosa spoke as if this were his first term,” Malema said during the parliamentary debate.
A Bold Voice Amid Global Scrutiny
Malema’s unapologetic stance has reignited conversations about black dignity, sovereignty, and foreign influence in South Africa’s domestic affairs. As global eyes remain fixed on the country’s land reform and political trajectory, Malema has made it clear: he will not be silenced by billionaires or foreign powers.
{Source: MSN}
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