Ngizwe Mchunu has been ordered to publicly apologise to Julius Malema after losing a high-profile defamation case in the Pretoria High Court on Tuesday.
The ruling follows allegations made by Mchunu on social media, where he accused the EFF leader of being linked to alleged drug dealers, protecting foreign criminals and using political influence for corrupt purposes.
Malema’s legal team argued that the claims were false, defamatory and aimed at damaging his reputation ahead of local government elections. After Mchunu failed to comply with a legal demand to retract the statements within 24 hours, Malema proceeded with court action.
Appearing without legal representation, Mchunu attempted to defend himself in court and argued that Malema had previously defamed others, questioning his right to sue. He also told the court he was unemployed and unable to afford a lawyer.
However, the court found that Mchunu failed to provide sufficient evidence or legal grounds to oppose the application, ultimately ruling in Malema’s favour.
The judgment requires Mchunu to retract the allegations publicly and issue an apology video to Malema. The apology must also be sent to TikTok personality King Zoso, whose platform hosted the viral interview clip.
Mchunu was also ordered to pay legal costs. Unless he files an appeal, the ruling effectively concludes the matter.