Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has warned Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso to “run fast” if he values his freedom, declaring that an EFF-led government would reopen his case and ensure his prosecution.
Speaking at the party’s Land Reclamation Day event in Johannesburg, Malema criticized Omotoso’s recent acquittal on charges of rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking, vowing that his party would “arrest him afresh and build a proper case.”
“If the EFF finds you, you are going to jail,” Malema said. “You cannot do to our children what you did and still walk free on our streets.”
Omotoso, along with co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, was cleared by the Gqeberha High Court after an eight-year trial. Judge Irma Schoeman ruled that the state failed to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, despite finding aspects of the complainants’ testimonies credible. The judgment drew criticism, including from Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi, who called it a “setback” in the fight against gender-based violence.
Malema Slams VAT Hike and Budget Supporters
Turning to economic issues, Malema lambasted political parties that backed the 2025 National Budget, which includes a 0.5% VAT increase. He singled out ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba as “an old crook” and accused budget supporters—including the ANC, GOOD Party, Patriotic Alliance, and UDM—of worsening poverty.
“These are the people who want you to starve,” Malema told supporters, listing leaders like Patricia De Lille, Gayton McKenzie, Bantu Holomisa, and Cyril Ramaphosa. The budget passed with 192 votes in favor, opposed by 182 MPs, including the EFF, MK Party, DA, and others.
Malema pledged continued resistance, vowing to fight the VAT hike until it is reversed. “Even if they increase it next month, we will oppose it. We will not lose hope—we will fight for our people.”
ActionSA Dismisses Malema’s Comments
ActionSA’s national communications director, Matthew George, dismissed Malema’s remarks as “misinformed” and “pointless,” stating Mashaba would not engage in “petty distractions.”
“Our focus is on serving South Africans, not entertaining baseless rants,” George told IOL News.
Malema also criticized Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana’s R20 increase to the SRD grant, calling it a “sneaky” attempt to offset the VAT hike’s impact. “They think we’re fools, but the EFF sees through their tricks,” he said.
As the EFF positions itself for future elections, Malema’s combative rhetoric signals intensified opposition to both judicial and economic policies he deems unjust.