Deciding who makes “worse” statements depends largely on one’s perspective on what constitutes harmful political discourse. Both Donald Trump and Julius Malema are frequently described as populist firebrands who use provocative language to mobilize their bases and challenge the political establishment.
One cannot help but draw parallels and wonder what level of influence Malema had on Trump’s future behaviour after a high-profile meeting in the Oval Office on 21 May 2025, when President Donald Trump confronted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa by playing video clips of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema chanting the controversial struggle song, “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer.”
The encounter occurred during what was intended to be a diplomatic discussion regarding trade, bilateral relations, and the upcoming G20 transition. The meeting reportedly shifted when Trump produced the video evidence and photos to support his allegations of “white genocide” and targeted attacks on farmers in South Africa.
Could Trump have decided that he needs to up his game?
Here is an analysis of the types of controversial statements each leader is known for, with examples of the rhetoric that has sparked significant public debate.
DONALD TRUMP: POPULISM AND INSTITUTIONAL DEFIANCE
Donald Trump’s rhetoric often focuses on American nationalism, anti-globalism, and challenging the legitimacy of established institutions (such as the media, the judiciary, and the electoral system).
Election Integrity: One of his most controversial themes involves the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election. He has repeatedly made claims of widespread fraud, such as at a rally in Georgia where he stated, “We won this election in a landslide. This was a rigged election.” Critics argue this rhetoric led directly to the January 6th Capitol riot.
Immigration: His descriptions of migrants have often been criticized as dehumanizing. During his 2016 campaign launch, he remarked that some Mexican immigrants were “bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists.” More recently, he has used phrases like “poisoning the blood of our country” when referring to undocumented immigrants.
Foreign Relations: He has made several derogatory comments about other nations, most notably during an Oval Office meeting where he reportedly referred to Haiti and African nations as “shithole countries,” questioning why the U.S. would want immigrants from those regions.
JULIUS MALEMA: RACIAL IDENTITY AND RADICAL ECONOMIC CHANGE
Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), focuses his rhetoric on the “struggle” against white monopoly capital, land reform, and radical economic transformation. His statements are often viewed as racially polarizing.
Racial Rhetoric: Malema has frequently been taken to court over statements regarded by critics as hate speech. A prominent example is his use of the struggle song “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer.” While he argues it is a historical song of liberation, critics and agricultural groups view it as an incitement to violence against white farmers.
Land Reform: On the topic of land expropriation without compensation, he has made aggressive remarks such as, “We are not calling for the slaughter of white people—at least for now,” a statement that drew widespread condemnation for its threatening undertone.
Attacks on the Judiciary and Media: Similar to Trump, Malema often attacks institutions that oppose him. He has characterized the Zondo Commission and specific judges as biased or “captured,” and has frequently targeted individual journalists, leading to concerns about the safety of the press in South Africa.
COMPARISON OF THEIR RHETORIC
| Feature | Donald Trump | Julius Malema |
| Primary Target | The “Deep State,” Globalists, and Liberal Media. | “White Monopoly Capital” and the “ANC Elite.” |
| Core Message | “Make America Great Again” (Nationalism). | “Economic Freedom in Our Lifetime” (Socialism/Populism). |
| Nature of Controversy | Often centred on democratic norms, immigration, and personal insults. | Often centred on race relations, land ownership, and revolutionary threats. |
| Impact | Polarized the American public and led to debates on the peaceful transfer of power. | Significant influence on the South African youth; drives the national conversation on land and inequality. |
THE VERDICT
The “worse” statements are subjective:
Those who value institutional stability and democratic norms often find Donald Trump’s rhetoric more dangerous because of his influence on the global superpower’s political systems.
Those who prioritize social cohesion and racial reconciliation often find Julius Malema’s rhetoric more harmful because of South Africa’s sensitive history and the potential for his words to spark civil unrest.
Ultimately, both leaders use “disruptive” language as a tool to ensure they remain the centre of the political narrative, often forcing their opponents to react to their most extreme statements.
legacy
Fun South African Fact: South Africa is home to the world’s longest wine route: Route 62. It spans an impressive 850 kilometres and the excellent wineries along the way are a must-visit for lovers of fine wine! You can even enjoy the winelands on a day trip from Cape Town. Travel 40-min to an hour outside of the city centre to enjoy decadent wine tastings and even wander through some of the beautiful wine farms and estates! Suburbs like Durbanville and Constantia are even closer to the city centre and are also home to many exceptional wineries.
Soda Delirium
Fun South African Travel tip: You can visit the hominid fossil displays and learn more about the beginnings of our planet at the Maropeng Visitors Centre and Sterkfontein Caves.