- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and his wife, Mantwa Matlala, are pursuing legal action against social media blogger Musa Khawula.
- Khawula is accused of posting defamatory claims on X (formerly Twitter) regarding the Malemas’ marriage, alleging affairs and impending divorce.
- The couple’s lawyers issued a letter of demand, threatening a R1-million lawsuit for damages and demanding a public apology and retraction.
- The allegations, posted on February 25, 2026, claimed Matlala could no longer tolerate Malema’s behavior and that Malema attempted to bribe Khawula.
The legal threat has ignited a viral discussion across South African social media platforms, highlighting the intersection of political figures’ private lives and the unchecked nature of online gossip. Khawula, a prominent blogger known for his controversial posts, faces a significant legal challenge that could set a precedent for social media accountability in the country. The Malemas deny all allegations, asserting their marriage is intact and that no divorce proceedings are underway.
The couple’s legal team, England Slabbert Attorneys Inc, dispatched the letter of demand on February 26, 2026. They argue that Khawula’s statements are false and have caused national ridicule, damaging the couple’s personal, political, and professional reputations, as well as causing emotional distress to their children. The bribery claim, specifically, is cited as an attack on Malema’s integrity as a public official.
Should Khawula fail to comply with the demands for an apology and content removal, the Malemas intend to seek an interdict from the High Court, pursue damages, and lay criminal charges of crimen injuria with the South African Police Service (SAPS). This firm stance underscores the seriousness with which the public figures are addressing what they perceive as targeted defamation.
Timeline
- No new specific updates on the legal process within the last hour. The story continues to trend with public discussion around the Malemas’ response to the rumors.
Key Players
- Julius Malema: Leader of the EFF, target of the divorce rumors.
- Mantwa Matlala: Malema’s wife, co-complainant in the legal action.
- Musa Khawula: Social media blogger accused of defamation.
- England Slabbert Attorneys Inc: Legal representatives for the Malemas.
