Julius Malema to face prosecution over alleged crimen injuria

Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), will face criminal prosecution for crimen injuria following statements made in April 2025. The prosecution comes after AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit successfully submitted representations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regarding allegations that Malema's comments violated the dignity of Jaco Pieterse.

Pieterse, the former principal of Bergview College in Matatiele, had been publicly accused by Malema of being a child rapist during an EFF event in Johannesburg. The allegations stemmed from an incident in October 2024; however, the NPA previously stated that investigators found no evidence of sexual assault after medical examinations and interviews were conducted.

Following the NPA's initial failure to decide on the matter, the Gauteng Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions issued instructions to institute proceedings in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court. Pieterse stated he hopes the process will "vindicate me and ensure that there is accountability for those who falsely accuse others of committing vile crimes."