Malema Tells Lawyers To Attach Zuma’s Nkandla Home Over Unpaid Legal Fees

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has announced his party’s intent to attach former President Jacob Zuma’s Nkandla property to recover unpaid legal fees.

This move is the latest in an escalating political and legal battle between the two figures, fueled by tensions surrounding Zuma’s newly-formed political party, the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP).

Malema Accuses Zuma of Non-Payment

Addressing supporters outside the Constitutional Court on Monday, the red berets leader claimed that Zuma owes the EFF significant sums in legal fees from past court battles.

The party leader referenced victories in which Zuma was held accountable, including the infamous “pay back the money” Nkandla judgment, as a turning point in their political rivalry.

“We defeated Zuma a long time ago… He has not forgiven us for bringing him to the Constitutional Court and making him pay back the money,” Malema told his audience. He added that despite court orders, Zuma has allegedly refused to settle the fees owed to the EFF.

“We have instructed our lawyer to proceed with attaching Nkandla if payment is not made by Wednesday,” Malema declared, vowing to escalate the legal fight if necessary.

Zuma’s MKP Gains Momentum

Zuma’s year-old MKP has emerged as a growing challenge for the EFF, notably making significant gains in the May elections and attracting prominent figures from Malema’s party. Former EFF heavyweights, including Dali Mpofu, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, and Floyd Shivambu, have joined the MKP, which Malema accuses of seeking to destabilise the red berets.

“We know this is a direct attack on us. Zuma is using his MKP to weaken the EFF, but we will fight back,” Malema said.

In a media briefing on Wednesday, MKP representative Dali Mpofu responded to Malema’s threats, stating that the Zuma Foundation, which handles such legal matters, had not received any formal communication regarding the attachment of Nkandla.

“We are not aware of any documents from the EFF, and this remains within the purview of the Zuma Foundation,” Mpofu said, downplaying the threat.

Broader Context

His remarks came during the EFF’s legal challenge at the Constitutional Court against Parliament’s decision to block an impeachment inquiry into President Cyril Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala scandal. The court has reserved its judgement in this matter, adding to the high-stakes political climate.

The feud between Malema and Zuma is longstanding, marked by Malema’s leadership in holding Zuma accountable during his presidency. Analysts suggest the ongoing tension may shape the political landscape heading into future elections.

With the EFF targeting Nkandla, the spotlight is once again on Zuma’s controversial homestead, which has become synonymous with allegations of corruption and public mistrust.

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