‘Elon Musk Will Never Open His Business in South Africa’ – Julius Malema Fires Back

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has once again launched a fiery attack against South African-born tech billionaire Elon Musk.

Speaking at the Sports Facility in Majwemasweu, Brandfort in the Free State, Malema responded to Musk’s recent criticisms of South African politics, including his vocal opposition to the Expropriation Act. Musk, who was born in Pretoria, earlier this year suggested that Malema should be declared an “international criminal.”

During his speech, Malema made it clear that Musk’s Starlink internet service would only be allowed to operate in South Africa if 30% ownership was handed over to historically disadvantaged groups.

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“Elon Musk will never come and open his business here in South Africa as long as he doesn’t surrender 30% to South Africans,” Malema told the crowd.

Malema also emphasized the need to create opportunities for all entrepreneurs, not just those politically connected, adding:

“We want every businessman to have an opportunity in the Free State — not only the politically connected.”

The EFF leader also took personal jabs at Musk, questioning his intellect and referencing their ongoing feud over the controversial struggle song “Kill the Boer”:

“Why must I educate Elon Musk? He looks illiterate; the only thing that protects him is his white skin. Elon Musk wants to learn about this song — the records are there in court. Let him go read the judgment. Let him go listen to my arguments in court,” Malema said.

The two have been locked in a public war of words since 2023, when Musk accused Malema of inciting violence during political rallies.

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As tensions between the EFF and Musk continue to escalate, Starlink’s future in South Africa remains uncertain — especially if Malema and the EFF gain political ground in the upcoming elections.