EFF Deputy President Godrich Gardee has strongly denied claims that he praises party leader Julius Malema and his legal team because he is financially dependent on the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF).
The online exchange began after Gardee publicly praised Malema’s lawyers, Advocate Lawrance Hodes SC and Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, following Malema’s recent sentencing in his long-running gun charges case. Malema was sentenced to five years in prison, although the sentence is pending appeal, meaning he remains free while the legal process continues.
Gardee’s praise for the legal team sparked criticism from one X user, who accused him of merely trying to stay in Malema’s good books for financial survival.
I receive no salary from EFF. I am not in parliament or public offical on payroll. My clients are not EFF members & they keep me afloat as and when they afford to pay. I sing not for my stomach, we are not ashamed of our deep association with @EFFSouthAfrica Dream on… https://t.co/saiO6ts7RF
— Godrich Gardee (@GardeeGodrich) April 19, 2026
“Otherwise you’ll go to bed hungry Godrich. Keep up your good work, praise, praise, praise and never stop,” wrote the X user, suggesting that Gardee’s loyalty was motivated by money rather than principle.
Gardee did not let the comment slide and responded with a firm rebuttal, rejecting the idea that he survives on EFF funds.
“I receive no salary from EFF. I am not in parliament or public official on payroll. My clients are not EFF members & they keep me afloat as and when they afford to pay. I sing not for my stomach, we are not ashamed of our deep association with @EFFSouthAfrica. Dream on brother…..” Gardee wrote.
His response quickly gained attention, with supporters praising him for addressing the accusation directly, while critics continued debating the close relationship between senior EFF leaders and Malema’s legal battles.
The exchange highlights the growing political tensions surrounding Malema’s conviction and the fierce loyalty that continues to define the EFF leadership circle.
