Julius Malema, the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has given a stern warning to Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of South Africa. It has been requested by him that the President revoke the appointment of Firoz Cachalia to the position of acting minister. It was revealed by Malema that the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have sent an official letter to the Presidency, requesting that the judgment be overturned. He issued a stern warning that the party will challenge the appointment before the Constitutional Court in the event that the President did not comply with their recommendation.
It was mentioned by Malema that he is of the opinion that the appointment was not carried out in accordance with the law. He stated that it violated the Constitution and was unethical. When it came to making this choice, he claimed that the President went beyond the scope of his authority. In his remarks, Malema highlighted that the EFF considers this action to be more than merely unfortunate. His statement said that it appears to be an attempt to circumvent the standard legal procedures that are outlined in the Constitution. He contended that actions of this nature pose a danger to the principle of separation of powers and have the potential to undermine accountability within the government.
Julius Malema says The EFF has written to President Cyril Ramaphosa, demanding the withdrawal of Firoz Cachalia’s appointment as acting Minister.
If the President doesn’t comply Malema warns that the EFF will take him to the Constitutional Court pic.twitter.com/W93wEne6oy
— News Live SA (@newslivesa) October 1, 2025
It was brought to his attention that the Constitution specifically outlines the process by which ministers and interim ministers should be appointed. The steps that Ramaphosa has taken with regard to this nomination, according to Malema, do not adhere to those norms. He cautioned that the President, in his capacity as head of state, cannot merely act in accordance with his own whims and fancies. The party is of the opinion that individuals, including the President, are obligated to comply with the law.
Experts in the field of law have expressed their perspectives on the matter. There is consensus among them that the President possesses some leeway in the appointment of acting ministers. On the other hand, they also state that these appointees must adhere to the rules established by the constitution. Certain commentators believe that the challenge presented by the EFF may disclose uncertainties regarding the powers of the president. Others are of the opinion that the lawsuit may be interpreted as a political maneuver that is intended to garner attention.
To this point, the Presidency has not provided a detailed response. The President, according to a spokeswoman, would carry out his duties in accordance with the law and would not be swayed by the possibility of legal action. During a period in which politics in South Africa are extremely tense, this issue has arisen. The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) accuses the government of sliding toward authoritarianism, portraying itself as a watchdog in the process. According to Malema, the war they are engaged in is not just about politics but also about safeguarding the Constitution.
Malema has made it quite clear that the Economic Freedom Fighters are prepared to take the President to court if need be. According to what he said, “We will take this matter to the Constitutional Court if he continues with this appointment that violates the Constitution.” Everyone ought to be subject to the same legal standards. It is possible that this circumstance may result in a court challenge that will test the limits of presidential power in the democratic structure of South Africa. The choice is currently in Ramaphosa’s hands for the time being. In the meantime, the nation is waiting to see whether he would revoke Cachalia’s appointment or whether he will appear in court.
