Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema revealed he once planned to establish a civil organization modeled after AfriForum, intended to advocate for the rights of Black South Africans, with former Judge President John Hlophe as its lead legal counsel.
Hlophe’s Role in the Proposed Organization
Malema stated he did not believe Hlophe was suited for a career in formal politics, envisioning him instead taking on prominent cases brought forth by groups like Freedom Under Law and the Helen Suzman Foundation. This plan emerged after Hlophe’s impeachment by Parliament in 2024, following which Malema visited him at his farm to express his disagreement with the decision.
Malema proposed Hlophe remain engaged in legal battles while simultaneously forming the new organization. “I want to plead with you to stay and fight your case and then we are going to form an AfriForum-type of organisation but for black people. Its responsibility would be to mark AfriForum,” Malema said, according to the podcast.
A Legal Figurehead for Civil Rights
Malema was prepared to financially support Hlophe during the organization’s establishment, intending for him to fulfill a role similar to advocate Gerrie Nel’s position within AfriForum. He envisioned Hlophe as a prominent legal figurehead championing civil rights.
However, the plan was ultimately unsuccessful as the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party recruited Hlophe before the EFF could finalize the project. “I wanted him to be a Gerrie Nel of some sort. But I think he had pressures of resources and decided to join politics and decided to join a wrong party,” Malema stated.
Hlophe’s Current Political Status
Hlophe is currently facing challenges within the MK Party, having been suspended as the parliamentary leader last November. Malema expressed skepticism about Hlophe’s current political affiliation, suggesting the MK Party does not adequately value highly educated individuals.
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