Malema Addresses Nxumalo Friendship And Rejects Tender Allegations As Unproven

Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema has publicly acknowledged his personal connection to businessman Zesimdumise Nxumalo, while firmly distancing himself and his party from allegations tied to a controversial Tshwane tender.

Speaking during a press briefing on Thursday, Malema made it clear that knowing Nxumalo does not equate to involvement in any wrongdoing, pushing back against claims currently being aired at the Madlanga Commission.

Allegations From The Commission

The controversy stems from testimony by suspended Gauteng police sergeant Fannie Nkosi, who told the commission he had access to internal tender documents linked to a Tshwane Metro Police Department contract.

According to evidence presented, the tender in question involved a three-year security contract to safeguard municipal infrastructure. A list of preferred companies allegedly circulated during the process, with claims that it originated from the EFF.

Nkosi also pointed to interactions involving former Tshwane MMC Kholofelo Morodi, with WhatsApp exchanges forming part of the evidence under scrutiny.

Malema Pushes Back On “Hearsay”

Malema’s response was direct. He argued that none of the testimony conclusively ties the EFF or its leadership to the alleged tender interference.

He stressed that the claims rely on second-hand information rather than verified facts, noting that no one had approached him or the party to confirm the authenticity of the so-called list.

For Malema, the issue is not just about the allegations themselves, but about how quickly political narratives can form without concrete proof. He insisted that invoking the EFF’s name without verification undermines the credibility of the claims.

A Friendship Under The Spotlight

Beyond the tender issue, Malema addressed his relationship with Nxumalo, who has also been mentioned during the commission’s proceedings.

He described Nxumalo as a well-known figure in social circles, particularly in Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, and openly referred to him as a friend. At the same time, Malema questioned why his association with Nxumalo was being singled out, suggesting that others connected to the businessman have not faced the same scrutiny.

He also highlighted Nxumalo’s political lineage, noting his family ties to the Inkatha Freedom Party, adding historical context to a figure now at the centre of controversy.

Political Pressure And Public Perception

The timing of the allegations places the EFF under renewed pressure, particularly as issues around procurement and governance continue to dominate South Africa’s political landscape.

Tender processes, especially at municipal level, have long been a flashpoint in local politics, often raising questions about transparency and influence. In that context, even unproven claims can carry significant political weight.

Malema, however, remains adamant. He denied any involvement in criminal activity and maintained that neither he nor the EFF had a role in the tender process being investigated.

A Case Still Unfolding

As proceedings at the commission continue, the spotlight remains on how the alleged list surfaced and whether any concrete links can be established.

For now, Malema’s position is clear. Knowing Nxumalo, he says, is not evidence of wrongdoing, and until verifiable proof emerges, the claims remain exactly what he calls them, hearsay.

{Source:IOL}

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