DA hails landmark court ruling against Malema’s hate speech

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed the Western Cape Equality Court’s ruling on Wednesday, which found Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema guilty of hate speech.

DA leader John Steenhuisen described the judgement as a “victory for the rule of law, the Constitution, and all South Africans who value a free, fair, and non-racial society.”

The case, brought forward by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), centred on remarks made by Malema that the DA claims incited violence, hatred, and racial division. These comments gained international attention after being aired during a high-profile meeting in the United States involving President Donald Trump, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and a South African delegation.

Steenhuisen said the judgement was a critical step in holding political leaders accountable for their words. “For too long, the world has watched as Julius Malema has incited violence, hatred and division, attempting to unstitch the very fabric of South African society,” he stated. “This type of divisive language is not just damaging locally; it has far-reaching international repercussions. South Africa’s reputation is at stake when such hatred is condoned or ignored.”

The DA has indicated that it will explore additional measures to ensure that the ruling carries serious consequences for Malema. According to Steenhuisen, the court’s decision confirms that political leaders are not above the law and must promote unity, not discord.

“South Africa’s Constitution protects freedom of expression, but it draws a clear line where speech incites hatred, discrimination or violence. Julius Malema has repeatedly crossed that line. This judgement is further vindication of our long-standing position that the EFF, if allowed into power, would unleash a wave of hatred and race-based violence,” Steenhuisen said.

He further emphasised that political leaders should be contributing to nation-building at a time when South Africa faces critical challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

“This ruling serves as a warning to all leaders in South Africa to conduct themselves in ways that strengthen, rather than divide, our nation,” he concluded.

The DA has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding constitutional values and ensuring that all South Africans are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.