Julius Sello Malema

Julius Sello Malema (born March 3, 1981) is a South African politician and the founder and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), a political party established in 2013. Before forming the EFF, he served as president of the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) from 2008 until his expulsion from the African National Congress (ANC) in 2012. He gained national prominence as a vocal supporter of Jacob Zuma and advocated policies such as nationalizing South Africa’s mining industry and land expropriation without compensation.

Malema’s relationship with Zuma later deteriorated, and by 2012 he was campaigning for Zuma’s removal. After his expulsion from the ANC, he founded the EFF, which entered Parliament in 2014 with 25 seats. Throughout his career, Malema has faced several legal controversies, including convictions for hate speech and charges related to fraud and money laundering, though some cases were dismissed due to delays. In 2025, he was again convicted of hate speech, and in October 2025 he was convicted on multiple firearm-related offenses stemming from an EFF rally. These convictions could potentially lead to a significant prison sentence and disqualification from Parliament, depending on the outcome of appeals.

Malema was born in Seshego near Polokwane in Limpopo and was raised by his mother, a domestic worker, and later by his grandmother. He became politically active at a young age, joining ANC-related youth movements and rising through student leadership roles. He completed his education at Mohlakaneng High School and later studied at the University of South Africa, earning degrees in communications, African languages, and philosophy, and later enrolling in a master’s program at the University of the Witwatersrand.

He was elected president of the ANC Youth League in 2008 after a contentious campaign. During this period, he was known for outspoken rhetoric and controversial political positions. His conduct led to disciplinary proceedings within the ANC, and following further disputes—particularly regarding remarks about Botswana—he was suspended and ultimately expelled from the party in 2012.

After leaving the ANC, Malema launched the Economic Freedom Fighters in 2013. The party advocates economic transformation, including nationalization of key industries and land reform. Malema has remained a prominent and polarizing figure in South African politics, known for his strong rhetoric, legal challenges, and influence among younger voters.