Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has sparked heated debate after criticizing anti-immigration activists, accusing them of unfairly targeting Black foreign nationals while remaining silent about white migrants living in South Africa.
Speaking at a large EFF gathering ahead of a planned national shutdown aimed at undocumented immigrants, Malema delivered a passionate address in which he challenged the motives behind the anti-immigration movement. A video of his speech quickly spread across social media, generating strong reactions from both supporters and critics.
During his address, Malema claimed that activists campaigning against illegal immigration often direct their anger toward African migrants while treating white people differently. According to the EFF leader, this selective approach exposes deeper issues related to race and inequality in South Africa.
He argued that many South Africans are being encouraged to blame fellow Africans for the country’s economic challenges instead of addressing broader structural problems. Malema described this as a tactic similar to those used during apartheid, where divisions among Black people were encouraged to weaken unity and distract from larger issues.
The EFF leader also spoke about the treatment of foreign nationals in public services, particularly healthcare facilities. He condemned reports of pregnant women being turned away from hospitals because of their nationality, saying such actions undermine human dignity and echo discriminatory practices from South Africa’s past.
Malema stressed that while criminal activity should never be tolerated, individuals suspected of breaking the law must be dealt with through legal channels rather than through intimidation or vigilantism. He maintained that law enforcement agencies should handle immigration violations and criminal offences instead of community groups taking matters into their own hands.
In one of the most talked-about moments of his speech, Malema challenged anti-immigration activists to direct their attention toward white undocumented migrants if they were genuinely concerned about illegal immigration. He questioned why certain groups appeared focused almost exclusively on African migrants while ignoring others.
The remarks have divided public opinion across the country. Supporters praised Malema for defending African unity and speaking out against what they view as xenophobic attitudes. Many argued that unemployment, poverty, and crime cannot be blamed solely on migrants and require broader solutions.
However, critics accused the EFF leader of overlooking legitimate concerns about illegal immigration and its impact on public resources, employment opportunities, and crime. Some social media users argued that government must take stronger action to secure borders and enforce immigration laws regardless of race or nationality.
The controversy comes at a time when immigration has become one of the most debated issues in South Africa. Rising economic pressures, unemployment, and growing frustration in some communities have intensified discussions about the country’s immigration policies.
As the planned national shutdown approaches, Malema’s comments are likely to remain at the centre of political debate. With opinions sharply divided, the discussion highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration, race, and economic opportunity in South Africa.
Whether viewed as a defence of African solidarity or a controversial political intervention, Malema’s remarks have once again placed him at the heart of one of the country’s most sensitive and polarizing conversations.
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