Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has thrown his support behind President Cyril Ramaphosa’s defiant stance against foreign interference in South Africa’s land expropriation policy. This comes after Ramaphosa boldly declared that South Africa “will not be bullied” by foreign powers, following former US President Donald Trump’s decision to cut financial aid over the contentious bill.
Malema welcomed Ramaphosa’s stance but didn’t hold back on questioning the government’s plan moving forward. “We won’t tolerate bullying,” Malema told an applauding crowd. “But you failed to tell us what you are going to do about it,” he added, calling on the administration to clarify its strategy for accelerating land reform and dealing with potential economic consequences.
The land expropriation bill, signed into law by Ramaphosa, allows for land redistribution without compensation in specific cases—a policy aimed at addressing historical land dispossession. While Malema has long championed land redistribution as essential to achieving true economic freedom, he criticized the ANC for being “indecisive” and delaying meaningful progress on the issue.
MALEMA: And now, this year, you tell us that you “will not be bullied.” We agree with you that we must not be bullied. But you failed to tell us what you are going to do about it.#EFFinParliament
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) February 11, 2025
“Until we take decisive action on land reform, economic freedom will remain a dream,” Malema stated, blaming the ANC’s lack of bold leadership for the slow pace of change.
Land expropriation without compensation remains one of South Africa’s most controversial issues. Supporters argue that it is necessary to correct past injustices and ensure equitable land distribution, while critics—particularly foreign investors—warn of severe economic consequences and instability in the agricultural sector.
Despite assurances from Ramaphosa that the policy will be implemented fairly and in accordance with the law, Malema’s remarks reflect growing frustration with the slow pace of reform. Many fear that the country could face financial and political repercussions from international powers if it continues down this path.
As tensions rise and pressure mounts on the government to act, all eyes are on Ramaphosa’s administration to see how it navigates this delicate balancing act—between addressing historical inequalities and protecting the country’s economic future.