Julius Malema’s call for financial support to black women at a Women’s Day rally reignites discussions on gender, race, and economic justice in South Africa.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has once again stirred public conversation with a bold call to action. Speaking at a Women’s Day rally in Secunda on August 9, 2025, Malema urged men to provide financial support to women — especially black women — as a form of compensation for enduring “triple oppression.” His remarks have provoked widespread debate across social and political spheres about responsibility, empowerment, and the path to gender equality in South Africa.
The Core Message: Money as a Form of Reparations
At the rally, Malema stated bluntly:
“Any man who doesn’t give women money is an irresponsible man.”
He framed this call within the context of historical and ongoing struggles faced by black women, describing their experience as “triple oppression” — suffering due to their race, gender, and socio-economic status.
“Women have to receive money, especially black women. They were oppressed three times more than us as men, and therefore, we have a duty to compensate them because they’ve gone through pain, and they still go through pain,” Malema declared.
His message was clear: financial support is not merely charity but a form of justice and recognition for systemic injustices.
Broader Themes: Protection, Respect, and Responsibility
Malema did not stop at financial issues. He also urged men to:
-
Stand firmly against gender-based violence (GBV)
-
Provide protection and respect for women
-
Fulfill their financial duties as providers
He emphasized the social consequences of neglecting child maintenance payments, warning that men who fail in this regard are contributing to societal problems.
“When you don’t support your child, you are creating a criminal in our community,” he stated, proposing that an EFF government would blacklist men who do not pay maintenance, restricting their economic participation.
Context: Gender Equality in South Africa Today
South Africa faces persistent challenges with gender-based violence and economic inequality. President Cyril Ramaphosa has also prioritized women’s financial empowerment during recent National Women’s Day commemorations, underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues at all levels.
Malema’s remarks thus arrive at a critical juncture, contributing a provocative viewpoint to ongoing debates about how best to support women in the country.
Malema calls on men to give women money as compensation for oppression
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) August 12, 2025
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has ignited a heated debate following his remarks at a Women’s Day rally in Secunda on August 9, 2025.
Addressing party supporters, Malema declared, “Any… pic.twitter.com/Jg4jTzFPoI
Public Reaction: Heated Debate and Divided Opinions
Malema’s statements have drawn mixed responses:
-
Supporters praise his forthright recognition of women’s struggles and his demand for concrete action.
-
Critics argue that financial obligations should be based on individual responsibility, not generalized compensation.
-
Some question the feasibility and fairness of blacklisting men who fail to pay child support.
-
Others welcome the spotlight on absent fathers and the societal consequences of neglect.
The Bigger Picture: Economic Justice Meets Gender Justice
Malema’s emphasis on money as a form of compensation highlights a key intersection:
-
Economic justice for historically marginalized groups, especially black women
-
The role of men in supporting gender equality beyond rhetoric
-
The need for policy solutions addressing maintenance, GBV, and economic empowerment simultaneously
What Experts Say
Sociologist Dr. Lerato Molefe comments:
“Malema’s framing brings attention to deep-rooted systemic inequalities that continue to marginalize black women. Financial empowerment must be part of the solution, but it should be paired with social and cultural change.”
Gender rights activist Nomvula Dlamini adds:
“Holding men accountable for child maintenance is critical, but blacklisting as a policy tool must be carefully designed to avoid unintended harms.”
Moving Forward: Challenges and Opportunities
South Africa’s journey toward gender equality demands nuanced approaches. Malema’s call reminds us that financial support, respect, and protection are interconnected pillars. Real progress will require collaboration across government, communities, and families — with honest conversations about history, responsibility, and justice.
Read more...Emtee Caught in Cheating Scandal Amid Allegations of Domestic Abuse — What’s Really Going On?
Sources:
MDN News - Malema calls on men to give women money as compensation for oppression
News24 - Gender equality and economic justice in South Africa
Daily Maverick - Julius Malema on Women’s Day
UN Women South Africa - Gender-based violence statistics
0 Comments