The Western Cape High Court has dismissed Julius Malema’s attempt to block parliamentary disciplinary proceedings against him, affirming Parliament’s authority to hold members accountable for misconduct. The ruling stems from the EFF leader’s actions during President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) in February, when Malema and other EFF members stormed the stage in protest.
Judge Thulare Mogoatlheng found Malema’s application lacked legal merit, stating that Parliament has the constitutional right to regulate its internal discipline. The court ordered Malema to pay legal costs, reinforcing that parliamentary processes should not be interfered with by the judiciary.
“The separation of powers must be respected,” the judgment read. “Parliament has both the duty and the right to maintain order and uphold its rules.”
The incident, which disrupted SONA proceedings, drew widespread criticism across party lines. Parliament welcomed the ruling, with spokesperson Moloto Mothapo stating it reaffirms that “no MP is above the institution’s rules.” Disciplinary hearings are set to resume soon, with potential sanctions ranging from a formal reprimand to suspension.
Malema, however, remained defiant outside court, calling the decision “politically motivated” and vowing to continue challenging Ramaphosa’s administration. “We will not be silenced by these tactics,” he said.
Political analysts say the ruling strengthens Parliament’s ability to enforce decorum but could further inflame tensions between the EFF and governing parties. As the disciplinary process unfolds, observers will be watching whether Parliament’s actions deter future disruptions or deepen existing political divisions.
The case highlights the ongoing tension between protest politics and institutional governance in South Africa’s increasingly combative parliamentary environment.