Popular activist and media personality Ngizwe Mchunu has publicly responded after the Gauteng High Court reportedly issued a warrant for his arrest on Friday, 5 June 2026, following a contempt of court ruling linked to his ongoing legal dispute with Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema.
According to court proceedings presided over by Judge Etienne Christoffel Labuschagne, Mchunu was found to have acted in contempt of court after allegedly disregarding earlier court orders. The judge reportedly ordered that he be detained for up to 10 days. However, the ruling also outlined conditions under which he could avoid immediate imprisonment.
One of the key directives from the court was that Mchunu must issue a clear and unconditional apology across his social media platforms. The apology had to acknowledge his conduct and show remorse for his actions that led to the contempt proceedings.
Public apology issued on social media
Shortly after news of the arrest warrant surfaced, an apology attributed to Mchunu began circulating online, allegedly shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account.
In the statement, Mchunu identified himself as the respondent in the legal matter involving Julius Malema and expressed regret over his conduct both before and after the court’s earlier rulings. He stated that he was “profusely, unreservedly and/or unconditionally” apologising to the court for his behaviour, which resulted in the application for contempt.
He also acknowledged the court’s orders issued on 12 and 19 May 2026, stating that he understood the seriousness of the judgment and the consequences of his actions.
Mchunu further indicated that he would comply fully with the court’s requirements moving forward, including refraining from making any further statements that could be seen as disrespectful or defamatory toward the applicant or the court.
He added that he was “remorseful for [his] contemptuous conduct” and confirmed his intention to respect the court’s directives going forward.
### Court conditions and possible suspension of arrest
Reports suggest that the court ruled the arrest warrant could be suspended for six months, provided that Mchunu complies with the conditions set out by the judge. This includes avoiding any repeat of the statements or behaviour that led to the contempt charge.
The ruling is part of a broader legal battle between Mchunu and Malema, which has drawn significant public attention due to the outspoken nature of both figures.
### Mixed reactions on social media
Mchunu’s apology quickly sparked debate online, with many social media users questioning its timing and authenticity. Some criticised him for waiting until a warrant was issued before apologising, while others dismissed the statement entirely due to uncertainty over whether the X account was officially verified.
Others advised him to fully comply with the court order and avoid further public statements that could worsen his legal situation.
### Ongoing legal attention
The case continues to attract widespread attention in South Africa, particularly due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved. With the arrest warrant reportedly suspended conditionally, Mchunu’s next steps will likely determine whether he avoids jail time or faces further legal consequences.
As the matter unfolds, the public remains divided, with many watching closely to see whether he fully complies with the court’s requirements or risks further action.
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