EFF leader Julius Malema launched a scathing attack on former US President Donald Trump during a fiery address at Zinniaville Sports Ground on Sunday, escalating his long-running criticism of American foreign policy in Africa.
The red beret leader branded Trump “the most illiterate president,” claiming even Jacob Zuma had better leadership qualities. His remarks come amid strained relations between Pretoria and Washington following Trump’s false claims about “land seizures” and “genocide” against white South African farmers – allegations he used to justify skipping last year’s G20 Summit in Johannesburg.
“America is an enemy of Africa,” Malema told supporters. “They thrive on our instability. Look at the DRC – perpetual conflict since mineral discoveries because America wants to plunder Congolese resources.”
The EFF commander-in-chief tied his anti-US rhetoric to domestic policy, vowing to accelerate land redistribution: “We will expropriate land and give it to the people of Rustenburg, Madibeng and the North West. That’s how we defeat neocolonialism.”
This latest broadside follows Malema’s February condemnation of Trump as “delusional” after the US imposed new tariffs on South African goods. Analysts note the EFF leader’s persistent anti-Western stance resonates with his base amid growing frustration over economic inequality.
The US State Department hasn’t responded to Malema’s latest remarks, but the verbal volleys highlight deepening geopolitical fractures as South Africa courts BRICS allies while Western relations cool. With Trump potentially returning to the White House, these clashes may intensify ahead of South Africa’s 2024 elections.