Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ On Wednesday, the leader of the South African party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, made a sharp response to accusations made by the world’s richest man, Elon Musk. In his statement, Musk accused the EFF of “pushing genocide” in South Africa. In retaliation, Malema called Musk “illiterate.” The exchange has generated significant attention, given the prominent positions both individuals hold in their respective fields. Such public disagreements highlight the complexities of political and social issues in South Africa and the potential impact of high-profile figures’ statements on the country’s political discourse.
The dispute between Musk and Malema centers around a controversial song from the fight against apartheid, which was sung at an EFF meeting. Malema has been criticized by the main opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party for chanting “Kill the Boer the Farmer” at the rally in Soweto. The term “Boer” refers to the descendants of the first European settlers in South Africa.
Malema’s use of the chant has sparked controversy, with some viewing it as inciting ethnic violence. Musk took to Twitter, where he has a significant following, to accuse Malema and the EFF of openly advocating for the genocide of white people in South Africa and called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to address the issue.
Malema, in response, dismissed Musk’s accusations and questioned his intelligence, saying, “Why should I educate Elon Musk, he seems illiterate. The only thing that protects him is his white skin.”
The chant “Kill the Boer” has been a contentious issue in South Africa, and last year, a court ruled that it did not constitute hate speech. However, an appeal on the matter is pending.
The political dispute between Musk and Malema adds tension in the lead-up to upcoming elections, where the ruling African National Congress (ANC), led by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is facing the possibility of losing its parliamentary majority and the presidency for the first time in its history.
