BREAKING NEWS: ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula Accuses Trump of “Fabricated” Punishment, Says US Showed Them a Julius Malema Video Instead of Discussing Facts

ANC Secretary‑General Fikile Mbalula warned that the United States, under President Donald Trump, is attempting to “punish South Africa on the basis of fabricated claims.”

Mbalula said that the Trump administration has not been “honest” with South Africa, recounting a recent meeting in which the US side “showed us a video of Julius Malema” instead of engaging on substantive issues. “We engaged him, and all he did was show us a video of Julius Malema,” Mbalula said, referring to the fiery EFF leader whose remarks often dominate South African political discourse.

The ANC chief’s remarks come amid heightened diplomatic tension after the US announced the withdrawal of aid to South Africa, citing unsubstantiated allegations that the country is expropriating land from white farmers – a claim President Cyril Ramaphosa has repeatedly denied. Mbalula’s speech echoed earlier ANC statements that the US should “stay away” from South Africa’s internal affairs and warned that any attempt to bully the nation would be met with firm resistance. 

Mbalula also reiterated the party’s commitment to its internal guidelines on credibility and integrity, which stress that members must step aside only when formally indicted for serious crimes. He emphasized that the ANC will not tolerate “criminal behaviour” within its ranks, but stressed that the party’s response will be guided by its own procedures, not external pressure.

The Secretary‑General’s comments have sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with many South Africans expressing support for the ANC’s stance while others question the timing and tone of the rebuke. As the diplomatic spat continues, the ANC has called on its members to remain united and vigilant against what it describes as “malicious lies” being spread about the country.