Social media debate rages around Malema’s “shoot to kill” chant

The social media debate centred around Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema’s “shoot to kill” chant during the party’s 10th-anniversary celebrations at FNB stadium in Soweto on Saturday continues unabated.

Malema’s chants of “shoot to kill” and “kill the boer, the farmer” have sparked controversy and legal action by the Democratic Alliance (DA) who have sought charges against him at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

The EFF maintains that the songs and chants are deeply rooted in the country’s liberation era, drawing parallels to their historical significance during the struggle against colonialism and apartheid.

In a landmark ruling last year, the Equality Court dismissed claims that the chant constituted hate speech. However, this was followed by lobby group Afriforum being granted leave to appeal the ruling against Malema and another EFF member, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi.

♦️In Case You Missed It♦️

On the 25th Of August 2022, the Equality Court Ruled That Dubula Ibhunu (Kill The Boer) does not constitute hate speech and should be protected under the Rubric of Freedom Of Speech

Read The EFF Statement Welcoming The Judgement and Read The Full… pic.twitter.com/eYSGFk9TDS

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) August 1, 2023

The DA’s recent move to pursue charges at the UNHRC has been met with defiance from the EFF. Spokesperson Sinawo Tambo has downplayed the significance of the DA’s action, describing it as futile. Tambo asserted that the EFF remains unshaken by the legal challenge, reaffirming the belief that the chants are revolutionary and integral to commemorating South Africa’s tumultuous history of struggle against oppression.

“We are very well aware that they are pained and bitter about the EFF’s successful 10th-anniversary rally, and they are looking for anything to try and subvert the progress and growth of the Economic Freedom Fighters,” stated Tambo.

Many people have taken to social media to express their divergent views about the controversy, with the hashtag #EFF10thAnniversary still trending since Saturday’s activities.

While some have argued that the chants are divisive, Malema’s supporters, under the trending hashtag #Julius, contend that the chants should not be viewed in isolation but understood as part of the broader struggle for justice, equality, and economic freedom in South Africa.

Many have echoed the EFF’s sentiment, asserting that the chants serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought against oppression and discrimination.

While the DA’s pursuit of charges at the UNHRC adds a new dimension to the ongoing debate surrounding the EFF’s chants, it appears that the party’s core support base remains resolute.

The EFF continues to stand firm, defending the chants as essential elements of their identity as a revolutionary movement committed to challenging the status quo and advancing the cause of economic freedom in South Africa.

DA approaches UNHRC over Malema song

#EFF10thAnniversary https://t.co/3ojTmUvu2T

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) July 31, 2023

What @EFFSouthAfrica displayed was nothing less than overwhelming. For various reasons, I am personally tired of consistently non surviving black opposition. To @Julius_S_Malema @FloydShivambu the leadership and the fighters at large I say, you should be extremely proud. Politics…

— Zwai Bala (@ZwaiBala) August 1, 2023

“Kill The Boer”

Was former President Thabo Mbeki correct in his assertion at the TRC, that the phrase is not a statement? pic.twitter.com/Eu1HLJg5g5

— Aldrin Sampear (@AldrinSampear) July 31, 2023

This is a slogan Julius Malema was taught to chant by the late Lion of The North Peter Mokaba…..at some point former President Mbeki was called upon to speak and defend Mokaba on this slogan………. pic.twitter.com/CwL5Vh6f09

— #LordOfTheMedia (@samkelemaseko) July 31, 2023