On Women’s Day this year, Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema didn’t hold back in addressing some tough truths about how men treat the women in their lives.
Speaking at an event in Secunda on August 9th, Malema used the occasion to praise women’s ongoing fight for equality — but he also made it clear that men need to step up, especially when it comes to respect and financial support.
Honouring Women’s Struggles and Calling Out Gender Violence
Malema started by paying tribute to the women who have fought for gender and racial equality in South Africa, acknowledging their strength and sacrifices through the years.
But he didn’t stop there — he turned his attention to the harsh realities many women still face today, particularly the troubling rates of gender-based violence.
He said plainly, “Women get raped in churches, at schools, in workplaces, and social places.
They don’t do this to themselves — it’s men who commit these crimes. Men have to stand up.”
A Bold Call to Men About Financial Support
What really caught people’s attention during Malema’s speech was his challenge to men who refuse to financially support the women around them.
He didn’t mince words: “Any man who doesn’t give women money is an irresponsible man. Women have to receive money.”
He also took aim at fathers who abandon their children and the single mothers left to raise them.
Malema promised that the EFF would take action against men who fail to pay child maintenance, even vowing to blacklist those who refuse to fulfill this responsibility.
A Glimpse Into Malema’s Own Family Life
Julius Malema’s personal life reflects some of the issues he addressed.
He is married to Mantwa Matlala, who is the mother of his two youngest sons, Munzhedzi and Kopano.
His eldest son, Ratanang, is from a previous relationship.
Malema has often spoken warmly about his late mother, Flora, and his grandmother, Sarah, both of whom played big roles in raising him.