Mabuyane takes legal action against Malema over ‘defamatory’ statements

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has taken legal action against Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema over what he describes as "defamatory" statements.

The application, filed in the Eastern Cape High Court in KuGompo City, seeks to have Malema’s claims declared false and unlawful and to stop him from repeating them.

The dispute centres around allegations by Malema that Mabuyane fraudulently obtained a master’s degree from the University of Fort Hare, claims the premier strongly denies.

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In court papers, Mabuyane argues the statements have damaged his reputation and were made without any evidence, adding that he is seeking damages and an interdict against further public comments.

The move comes amid heightened legal pressure on Malema, who was last week sentenced by the East London Magistrates Court for a firearm-related offence, stemming from a 2018 rally.

Malema remains free pending an appeal.

Sonwabo Mbananga, who speaks for the premier, said: "Premier Mabuyane remains firmly committed to the rule of law and has elected to place this matter before a competent court of law so that the truth may be determined through due legal process, rather than through ongoing public misinformation and political grandstanding. The premier will not allow his name, reputation, or public office to be undermined by false and defamatory claims."

Political tensions between the two have been playing out publicly, with the court now expected to determine whether Malema’s remarks amount to defamation.