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Of Sheep, Chocolate, and Politics: Inside Julius Malema’s Latest Declarations
Malema’s latest MP declaration includes royal livestock, Swiss chocolates, and a growing business portfolio
Julius Malema is no stranger to headlines, but this time it’s not for fiery speeches or parliamentary brawls, it’s for chocolates, a bottle of wine, and a R7,000 sheep.
The EFF leader’s latest declaration in Parliament, published in the 2024 Register of Members’ Interests, is drawing both chuckles and commentary from the public. South Africans are used to explosive news from Malema, yet this quietly filed document has a surprising charm of its own.
Gifted by Royalty and Diplomacy
According to the ethics report adopted by Parliament’s Joint Committee on Ethics and Members’ Interests, Malema disclosed a sheep gifted to him by BaPedi Queen Lenaganabatho II Manyaku Thulare, a symbolic offering from royalty that could be seen as cultural recognition or political favor, depending on how one reads it.
He also accepted a bottle of wine and a box of Lindt Lindor chocolates from Liu Kaiyang of the Chinese Embassy. While the wine’s value wasn’t disclosed, the gesture itself raised eyebrows online, especially as relations between South Africa and China continue to evolve politically and economically.
On X (formerly Twitter), users joked:
“Malema’s going soft, from fighting Parliament to sipping wine and nibbling Lindt,”
while others asked more pointed questions about diplomatic influence.
What’s Behind the Gifts?
While some South Africans laughed at the unexpected nature of the items, others are reading between the lines. Why would a queen gift livestock to a political leader? And what kind of relationship is Malema cultivating with diplomats like Liu?
In African culture, livestock is a traditional sign of respect, alliance, or goodwill. But when such gifts are received by a prominent opposition figure, they can raise red flags about political alliances or attempts at influence, especially when transparency is already a concern in the country’s political landscape.
No Property, No Loans, But a Farm Business
Notably, Malema declared no property or land ownership and no interest-free loans or sponsorships a clean slate, on paper. But he did list several family trusts and his role as a director at Mgagao Shamba, a business with a focus on farming, events, and product sales.
With agriculture playing a growing role in South Africa’s economy and land reform remaining a touchy issue, this venture could place Malema at an interesting intersection of political and economic influence.
Transparency, at Last?
In a positive step for parliamentary transparency, all 400 MPs submitted their declarations by the deadline, a first for South Africa’s legislature. While the declarations often fly under the radar, they provide crucial insight into the potential for conflicts of interest and the personal finances of public servants.
Malema’s financial disclosure, though modest compared to some, is a reminder that even the most outspoken politicians have quieter moments of diplomacy, tradition, and personal enterprise.
Chocolate-Coated Politics
Whether it’s a strategic show of compliance or a glimpse into the personal side of a firebrand politician, Malema’s sheep and Swiss chocolates offer an oddly tender contrast to his usual image. But in politics, nothing is ever just what it seems.
One thing’s certain: when Julius Malema receives a gift, South Africans take notice, even if it’s just a box of Lindt and a bottle of red.
