For Undermining South Africa’s Sovereignty
CCN Editor – George April
JOHANNESBURG:- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called for Solidarity and AfriForum to be criminally charged.
The EFF leader accusing the two organisations of acting against South Africa’s sovereignty, and bypassing the authority of the democratically elected government.
Speaking during a media briefing on Monday, Malema said Solidarity and its sister organisation, AfriForum, have repeatedly engaged in what he described as “parliamentary-type diplomacy abroad,” often lobbying foreign governments and international bodies “in the name of South Africa” without any mandate from the state.
According to Malema, these activities amount to “parallel diplomacy” and pose a direct threat to the country’s global standing.
“These are private organisations claiming to represent South Africa internationally, contradicting the positions of our government and undermining our sovereignty,” he said.
“They must be charged. You cannot have people travelling the world, speaking on behalf of this country when they were not elected to do so.”
Malema’s remarks come after Solidarity and AfriForum conducted several overseas campaigns in recent years, including meetings with U.S. and European lawmakers over issues such as farm murders, labour policies, and minority rights. These campaigns have often drawn criticism from government and some political parties, who argue that such actions present a distorted image of South Africa to the world.
The EFF leader further argued that the state should “urgently create legislation,” that prevents any civil society group from engaging foreign governments without official clearance. He added that such actions create confusion and weaken South Africa’s diplomatic influence.
Solidarity and AfriForum have previously defended their international outreach efforts, saying they are aimed at advocating for human rights and minority protections. They maintain that they act within the law and insist that their work does not undermine the government.
Both organisations have yet to respond to Malema’s most recent demands.
Malema concluded by saying the EFF will push for Parliament to summon Solidarity and AfriForum to account for their engagements abroad.
