Julius Malema Slams Starlink Policy Shift: “No BEE, No Entry into South Africa”

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema is not holding back. As government moves to ease Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) requirements for satellite internet providers like Elon Musk’s Starlink, Malema has strongly condemned the decision, saying it undermines South Africa’s commitment to economic transformation.

Speaking to supporters in Koppies, Free State, ahead of a local by-election, Malema accused the government of bending to foreign and elite pressure following high-level talks at the White House.

“Starlink Can’t Skip BEE” – Malema

Malema told the crowd that any attempt to exempt Starlink from South Africa’s B-BBEE rules is unacceptable. He argued that foreign companies must be held to the same standards as local businesses — including the 30% ownership requirement for Black South Africans.

“Starlink will not enter this country unless it complies with our transformation laws,” Malema said. “That 30% must go to our people — not to one individual, but to many. We must benefit from our economy.”

MALEMA: That Starlink will NOT come into South Africa if it is not Compliant with BEE…#VoteEFF

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) May 25, 2025

Backlash Over Policy Change After US Meeting

His remarks follow the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies’ gazetting of a policy directive that may ease B-BBEE obligations for multinational telecom providers. The draft, put forward by new Minister Solly Malatsi, frames the move as a way to fast-track broadband access and encourage international investment.

However, the timing raised eyebrows — it came just days after President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit to the White House, where he met with US President Donald Trump. Billionaire Johann Rupert reportedly pushed for Starlink’s fast-tracked approval during that meeting, citing South Africa’s high crime rates, sluggish economy, and poor digital infrastructure.

Malema was quick to point out the correlation, accusing the government of selling out to foreign interests.

“One day they talk about it in the White House. The next day, our government is ready to rewrite the rules — for Elon Musk. What kind of sovereignty is that?” he asked.

Parliament Summons Minister Over Starlink Policy

The backlash hasn’t come only from opposition parties. Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies has now summoned Minister Malatsi to explain the rationale behind the controversial policy direction.

Committee chairperson Khusela Diko confirmed the hearing and said the changes could contravene the Electronic Communications Act, appearing to unfairly favour SpaceX and its satellite broadband network.

“We expect full transparency from the minister,” Diko said, “especially when the integrity of our legal and empowerment frameworks is in question.”

EFF Vows to Block Starlink Without B-BBEE Compliance

This isn’t the first time the EFF has opposed Starlink’s entry into South Africa — and it won’t be the last. The party insists that international tech companies cannot bypass policies designed to redress inequality and uplift historically disadvantaged communities.

Malema closed his speech with a warning to both government and private players: “Comrades, we must never let business dictate our policies. Starlink must comply, or it must stay out.”

{Source: IOL}

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