A passionate address by EFF leader and South African President Julius Malema has sparked widespread attention just days before the country’s official delegation travels to Washington, DC. Speaking at a public forum in Gauteng over the weekend, Malema addressed foreign policy, economic independence, and South Africa’s global stance—issuing a sharp message to Western powers: “We are not their puppets.”
The speech, delivered in both English and local languages, quickly spread across social media, with many urging others to listen closely and translate key segments where Malema switched into Sesotho and isiZulu for emphasis.
This was before the SA Delegation Visit to Washington. Listen Carefully to this submission by President Malema. Get someone to translate for you where he speaks in Vernacular! pic.twitter.com/uHAcpFQ3LJ
— African (@ali_naka) May 27, 2025
In one of the most pointed moments, he declared: “Ha re sa tlo lebela Amerika e re laela re le masea. Re setjhaba se ikemetseng!”—roughly meaning, “We will no longer allow America to dictate to us like we are children. We are an independent nation!”
The remarks are viewed as a signal of South Africa’s expected approach in upcoming talks with US officials, where trade, BRICS cooperation, and global security partnerships will be key discussion points.
Critics have dismissed Malema’s speech as political posturing that could harm diplomatic relations, especially as South Africa negotiates trade benefits under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). However, supporters applauded his defiant tone, calling it a necessary reaffirmation of the nation’s autonomy.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has not clarified whether Malema’s statements align with the delegation’s official position.
With the Washington visit approaching, observers are watching to see whether Malema’s strong rhetoric will lead to assertive yet productive diplomacy—or risk escalating tensions with crucial international partners.