Julius Malema: South Africa’s Controversial Politician Faces Trump’s Wrath Over ‘Kill the Farmer’ Chant

JOHANNESBURG - Julius Malema, the fiery South African politician, has sparked international outrage with his chant "Kill the farmer, kill the Boer." This provocative slogan, which President Donald Trump recently demanded his arrest over during a tense Oval Office exchange with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, has thrust Malema into the global spotlight. Known for his Marxist-Leninist rhetoric, Malema leads the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a party that once held promise but saw its support dwindle to under 10% in last year’s elections.

Clad in designer suits and Rolex watches, Malema projects an image of a revolutionary for the poor while residing in a lavish mansion on Johannesburg’s wealthiest street. Critics highlight the irony of his opulent lifestyle, accusing him of exploiting the very pensioners he claims to champion. Allegations tie him to the collapse of VBS Bank, where over $111 million was allegedly looted, leaving retirees and communities destitute. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has relentlessly pursued justice, filing charges in 2018, though prosecutions remain stalled.

Malema’s rhetoric extends beyond domestic issues. His vocal support for Hamas, including calls to arm the terror group and shut down Israel’s embassy in South Africa, has drawn sharp criticism. "When you are oppressed, you only have one option, shoot to kill," he declared at a 2023 rally, defending Hamas’ actions post-October 7. Such statements, paired with his chant deemed non-hate speech by South Africa’s Constitutional Court, fuel his polarizing persona.

Trump’s offer of refuge to Afrikaner farmers, amid disputed claims of White genocide, escalates tensions. Malema’s defiance—repeating the chant days after Trump’s demand—suggests a strategy of provocation, thriving on controversy. Analyst J. Brooks Spector describes him as South Africa’s political "bad boy," whose populist appeal wanes as unemployment and poverty persist. With Trump’s focus now on Malema’s Hamas ties and VBS scandal, experts warn he could face U.S. sanctions, a move that could reshape his political future.