EFF leader Julius Malema is suing cultural activist and former radio presenter Ngizwe Mchunu for R1 million over remarks he allegedly made during a media interview in Pretoria.
According to a letter dated 29 April, Malema’s lawyers from England Slabbert Attorneys demanded that Mchunu retract the statements within 24 hours.
Mchunu joins a growing list of public figures Malema has recently taken legal action against, including Kenny Kunene and social media personality Musa Khawula.
Claims made during the interview
The dispute stems from comments Mchunu allegedly made during an interview with content creator King Zoso on Tuesday in Pretoria.
During the interview, Mchunu claimed Malema had received money from Nigerian drug dealers. He also suggested that this explained his stance on Nigerians and undocumented migrants.
Malema’s attorney, Angelike Charalambous, described the remarks as false, malicious and damaging to his reputation.
She said the statements created the impression that Malema was involved in criminal activity and acted dishonestly.
Charalambous said Malema depends on his reputation to carry out his duties as a Member of Parliament and as president of the EFF.
The letter further claimed Mchunu made the remarks to gain political advantage ahead of the local government elections in November.
Charalambous said Mchunu supports the MK Party and intended to damage both Malema’s image and the EFF’s voter support.
Malema issues 24-hour deadline to Mchunu
The legal team demanded that Mchunu apologise publicly and withdraw the statements on his own social media platforms, the King Zoso platform and EFF platforms.
The letter warned that if Mchunu failed to comply within 24 hours. Malema would begin legal proceedings that could include a damages claim and a punitive costs order.
