JOHANNESBURG — On Sunday, Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s communist Economic Freedom Fighters party, once again led the controversial chant “Kill the Boer, kill the farmer” during a public rally. The slogan, rooted in anti-apartheid protest songs, has long been a flashpoint in South African politics. While some view it as a symbolic expression of historical resistance, many interpret it as incitement to violence against white farmers.
Malema has consistently defended the chant, asserting its place in the country’s liberation history. South African courts have upheld that view. In 2022, the Johannesburg High Court ruled that the chant did not constitute hate speech, a decision affirmed by the Supreme Court of Appeal in 2024.
Despite those rulings, the chant continues to draw international criticism. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and entrepreneur Elon Musk are among those who have condemned its use, arguing that it perpetuates racial divisions and incites violence.
According to South Africa’s Extra Time Media, Malema’s latest rally drew thousands of supporters, many of whom joined in the chant without intervention from law enforcement:
Speaking to supporters ahead of the 28 May by-elections, Malema used his platform to reassert the EFF’s revolutionary rhetoric and address his recent spotlight at the White House.
At the rally, Malema lashed out at Ramaphosa, accusing him of damaging South Africa’s image by publicly acknowledging the country’s crime challenges during talks with US President Donald Trump.
“Ramaphosa killed the tourism of South Africa when he declared crime at the White House,” Malema said, adding, “You’ve got a coward President!”
“It only took Donald Trump to remind all of you that this is not a small organization,” he said, reportedly referencing the party’s ability to fill FNB Stadium, Africa’s largest.
In a recent Oval Office meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump confronted South African President Ramaphosa with footage of Malema leading the chant, suggesting it was evidence of targeted violence against white farmers. Ramaphosa rejected the claim, emphasizing that Malema’s views do not represent government policy and that the chant’s historical context is often misunderstood.
Ramaphosa has not publicly addressed Malema’s latest use of the chant. His silence has drawn criticism from critics who argue the government’s lack of condemnation could be seen as tacit approval.
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Of course there is an historical context … Just as there is an historical context to the “Palestinian” chant “…to the sea”. Leave the chant in the historical context it belonged to. Neither are appropriate to be used in the present, as any sort of rallying cry.
So, “Kill the Kaffirs is cool too?