Julius Malema Urges African Leaders Not to Bow Down to Donald Trump, Earns Criticism and Compliments
- Julius Malema has urged African leaders not to be tempted by Donald Trump's influence
- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and its leader have often criticised the United States of America
- South Africans shared their thoughts on Malema's statement, sharing mixed reactions to the news
Source: Getty Images
Briefly News journalist Byron Pillay has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He spent 10 years working for the Northern Natal Courier before transitioning to online journalism.
ENUGU, NIGERIA – Julius Malema has once again criticised Donald Trump.
The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters has long-standing animosity with the President of the United States of America and is now warning other African leaders against him.
The Red Berets Commander in Chief has called on leaders of African countries not to bow down to Trump, saying that they must not be subjects of Trump.
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What did Malema say?
Speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association’s (NBA) annual general conference on Sunday, 24 August 2025, Malema called for unity among African nations. He stated that the African continent could stand to lose big if it were divided.
He then cautioned African leaders against bowing to Trump, saying that it was an attack on the sovereignty of African states. Trump has recently met with leaders of some African countries as he attempts to strike deals with them. His administration also has deals in place with other African states, like Eswatini.
Malema is not happy with that, saying that the US President has no business influencing Africa’s policy position.
“We don’t care what Trump thinks of us. He will never choose a policy position for Africans. We must refuse to be subjects of Trump,” Malema said.
Source: Getty Images
What you need to know about the USA and EFF issues
Read also
Naledi Pandor calls for selfless leaders to restore ANC’s lost glory, SA says it’s too late
- The EFF labelled Trump a KKK leader after the US expelled South Africa's ambassador Ebrahim Rasool.
- The EFF called out Trump for his tweet about genocide and land confiscation in South Africa.
- Julius Malema responded to Trump’s calls for his arrest during a meeting at the White House.
- The EFF labelled Trump as a liar following his meeting with Cyril Ramaphosa at the White House.
- Malema claimed that Trump was scared of him because he sang the Kill the Boer song.
How did South Africans react?
Social media users were divided by Malema's comments, with some criticising him and some agreeing with him.
Jabu Khuluse said:
“Most people expose their ignorance by quickly criticising Julius without reading the article or listening to his statements from yesterday.”
John Ndongo added:
“Most fellow Africans are having a problem with political education. What Malema is saying is right.”
Sebariki Wa Sebariki stated:
“Malema for president.”
Eliza James said:
“If only the rest of our African leaders would take a page out of President Ibrahim Traorè’s leadership book, maybe just maybe our economic freedom will be realised sooner. It is time to dump the Trump and the rest of the West; free ourselves from mental slavery and acknowledge our self-worth - as a country rich in natural resources and a people rich in our diversity.”
Michael Manake added:
"Well said, son of the soil. I thank you. May God bless Africa."
Johan Strydom said:
“And we refuse to be subjects of Malema.”
NhlaNhla Ndlovu added:
“Malema is wrong. He isn't aware of how much the USA helps the South African economy grow. He's busy being a politician while we're hungry for jobs, which he doesn't provide.”
Jonathan Welch suggested:
“Malema, please fly to the USA and go tell him to his face.”
Gerald Pillay stated:
“Empty vessels make the loudest noise...lol.”
Wilhelm Lombaard claimed:
“The problem is that this one thinks he owns Africa.”
Malema calls for a united Africa
Briefly News reported that Malema called for Africa to unite under one presidency and currency.
The leader of the EFF believes that a united African continent will rival the United States of America.
South Africans shared their thoughts on Malema's comments, questioning how it would work under one president.
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Source: Briefly News
