Julius Malema Gives Helen Zille Until Wednesday to Apologies

Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Chairperson Helen Zille has stood her ground over her controversial statements about Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema, raising the possibility of a legal showdown between the two influential South African politicians.

The dispute erupted following an interview Zille had with eNCA on Sunday, 8 November 2026, during which she accused Malema of having significant influence over decisions made in the City of Johannesburg when Herman Mashaba was serving as mayor.

Zille alleged that Mashaba, who led the municipality through a DA-governed coalition, allowed Malema to influence important municipal decisions in return for political support to maintain his position.

Her allegations included claims that Malema had a hand in decisions concerning City Power, the city’s fleet tender and the appointment of former senior police official Shadrack Sibiya as head of Johannesburg’s anti-corruption unit.

Malema has strongly rejected the accusations, with his legal team sending Zille a formal letter of demand. The lawyers are demanding that she withdraw her statements, issue a public apology and provide written confirmation that she will not repeat the allegations.

According to Malema’s legal representatives, Zille made damaging and defamatory claims without providing sufficient evidence to support them. They argue that the remarks have negatively affected the EFF leader’s reputation.

The demand requires Zille to comply by close of business on Wednesday, 11 November. Her legal team could face further action if she fails to meet the deadline, including a possible damages claim and an interdict preventing her from repeating the allegations.

However, Zille’s reported refusal to retract her comments suggests that she is prepared to defend her position rather than give in to Malema’s demands.

The confrontation comes amid heightened political tensions following the 2026 local government elections, with coalition politics and previous political alliances attracting renewed attention.

The dispute has also brought back memories of the DA’s previous working relationship with the EFF in Johannesburg under Mashaba’s administration.

With neither politician appearing willing to back down, the disagreement could soon end up in court, creating another major legal and political battle that South Africans will be watching closely.

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