Malema Warns GNU Ministers Against Xenophobia

Call for Strong Leadership

EFF leader Julius Malema has urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to caution some ministers in the Government of National Unity (GNU) against using xenophobia for political gain. He said leaders must reject violence against foreign nationals. He added that fear must not be used as a campaign tool.

Malema made the remarks during a public address. He said certain politicians are spreading hostile messages to attract votes. According to him, migrants are being blamed for problems that require policy solutions. He warned that such messaging fuels anger in communities. He also said it weakens social unity.

Blame and Economic Pressures

Moreover, Malema argued that unemployment and crime should not be linked to migrants. He said these challenges come from weak governance and corruption. He noted that service delivery failures create frustration. As a result, some leaders look for easy targets.

He stressed that jobs must be created through investment. He said public services must be improved through better planning. In his view, hate speech offers no economic benefit. Instead, it deepens divisions among the poor.

Unity in the GNU

Meanwhile, Malema called on Ramaphosa to speak firmly to his cabinet. He said the GNU must show one message. He added that ministers must respect the Constitution and said human dignity applies to everyone who lives in South Africa. Therefore, public statements must promote calm and respect.

Malema also linked the rise of xenophobic language to election pressure. He claimed some leaders are campaigning through fear and repeated that “xenophobia will not make you a president.” He said voters want real answers. They want safety, jobs, and stable services.

Civil Society Concerns

At the same time, civil society groups have raised alarms. Several organisations have warned about growing hostility toward migrants. They have asked government to act faster. According to them, words from officials shape public behaviour.

On the other hand, some ministers have defended tougher border controls. They argue that illegal migration strains housing and clinics. However, Malema rejected the idea that migrants are the main cause of hardship. He said corruption and mismanagement cause greater damage. He urged leaders to fix those failures first.

Presidency Yet to Respond

So far, the presidency has not issued a detailed reply to Malema’s comments. In the past, Ramaphosa has condemned attacks on foreign nationals. He has said criminals must face the law. He has also said South Africa must protect human rights.

As the election period continues, political tensions are rising. Parties are competing for support across the country. In many areas, poverty remains severe. Therefore, the tone of political debate has become more sensitive.

Malema’s message has placed new pressure on the GNU. It has also highlighted divisions inside the coalition. Whether Ramaphosa will publicly address his ministers remains unclear. For now, the debate over xenophobia has returned to the centre of national politics.

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