Elon Musk declares South Africa's Julius Malema as an 'international criminal'

Elon Musk has demanded that South African political leader Julius Malema be designated an international criminal and advocated for swift sanctions against him. Malema, the head of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), made contentious statements in a 2018 speech that was resurfaced and was thought to incite violence against white people, which sparked this demand. Malema said, "We're cutting the throat of whiteness," in his speech. White women, children, and their dogs will all be killed.

In response, the EFF dismissed Musk's statements, viewing them as part of a broader imperialist agenda and an attempt to interfere in South Africa's domestic affairs. The party emphasized Malema's longstanding opposition to Western imperialism and his advocacy for African economic emancipation. They accused Musk of acting as a "global billionaire maniac" trying to manipulate governments for his business interests. The EFF also declared that Musk's satellite internet service, Starlink, would not operate in South Africa unless it complies with local regulations, including a 30% local ownership requirement.

This exchange highlights the tension between global business leaders and local political movements, especially when comments are perceived as external interference in national matters. While Musk's condemnation focuses on Malema's contentious rhetoric, the EFF frames it as an attack on their broader political objectives and sovereignty. The incident underscores the complex dynamics at play when international figures engage with domestic political issues, raising questions about influence, autonomy, and the boundaries of global discourse.