EFF leader Julius Malema has reignited his criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump, branding him the “most illiterate president” during a fiery address at Zinniaville Sports Ground in Rustenburg. The remarks come in the wake of rising diplomatic tension between the United States and South Africa following the U.S. government’s decision to cut financial aid to the country earlier this year.
During his speech, Malema said:
“Comrades, go na le monna o mongwe ka mo, bare ke Donald Trump. The most illiterate president. Even Zuma was better than Donald Trump… America is an enemy of Africa.”
Tensions over U.S. Accusations
The diplomatic strain escalated after Trump accused South Africa of seizing land from white farmers and alleged a “genocide” against them. Trump also boycotted the recent G20 Summit in Johannesburg, citing these claims as justification.
Malema, known for his outspoken criticism of Western foreign policy, doubled down on his belief that the U.S. has no genuine interest in African progress.
“They don’t want stability in Africa. They don’t want any African leader who speaks for Africans,” he said. “The DRC has never known peace since the discovery of minerals… because America wants to undermine the people of the DRC.”
Land Expropriation and Local Promises
Using the rally to refocus attention on one of the EFF’s core policies, Malema reiterated the party’s promise to expropriate land without compensation and redistribute it to historically disadvantaged communities.
“We want to make sure we expropriate land and give it to you – the people of Rustenburg, the people of Madibeng, the people of North West.”
Not the First Time
This is not the first time Malema has lashed out at Trump. Last month, the EFF leader called the former U.S. president “delusional” after Trump imposed tariffs on various African goods. Malema’s remarks reflect growing frustration within the party over what it perceives as neocolonial interference in African governance.
