Julius Malema receives backlash over response to journalist at press briefing

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema is facing backlash over his response to Eyewitness News (EWN) journalist Alpha Ramushwana, who questioned the party’s declining voter support in recent elections.

Malema responded dismissively, which many online perceived as rude.

Also see: WATCH: Julius Malema takes a jab at businessman MySol: “He’s a small boy”

Julius Malema dismisses ‘stupid’ questions

Ramushwana asked Malema a question during the media briefing on 7 November 2026, concerning the issue of the CIC’s name consistently being linked to controversial figures and how that may be contributing to the decline in support for the party.

“Evidence in court or affidavits has linked you to controversial figures, including Jothan Msibi and his farm, Mo Sayed and, by extension, Feroz Khan and Ze Nxumalo. I would like to think that the voters are not stupid. These are things that they take to the ballot box. Do you think that these controversial links are the reason the EFF’s electoral support has declined?” Ramushwana asked.

In a cold and sharp tone, the party leader responded:

“So what? There’s nothing I can do about that,” he answered before elaborating on his retort.

“It’s a personal view, and you masquerade it. You come and ask us non-existent questions. If you have nothing to think, shut up. Don’t want to try to sound intelligent by asking stupid questions,” Malema dismissed.

This response did not sit well with many online users.

Also see: Julius Malema celebrates son’s birthday, lavish home sparks internet debate

Ego cometh before the fall

Many commenters point out that the CIC’s response was a tantrum and that Ramushwana struck a nerve with the question he asked. A few are unimpressed by the tone used in the response.

“Malema needs to have emotional intelligence. You don’t speak like that as a leader. No matter how stupid the question is,” one person commented.

Another social media creator shared their opinion in a different video where she found that Malema’s behaviour may come off as egotistical at times and notes that it may work against him in this current political climate.

Featured Image: X/ @NalediChirwa

Also see: Julius Malema sheds light on his open border policy: ‘This thing of borders is colonial’