Julius Malema’s 2021 Comment About Fannie Masemola Resurfaces After General’s Testimony, SA Split
- General Fannie Masemola testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on 22 September 2025
- Masemola's performance had many citizens recalling statements Julius Malema made about him
- South Africans shared their thoughts on Malema's comments, with some saying it was spot on
Source: Getty Images
Briefly News journalist Byron Pillay has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He spent 10 years working for the Northern Natal Courier before transitioning to online journalism.
GAUTENG – Julius Malema’s previous comment about Fannie Masemola has resurfaced following the General’s appearance at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The National Police Commissioner took centre stage on day four of the commission into criminality, political interference, and corruption in the criminal justice system.
Masemola’s appearance follows on from Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi’s three days of explosive testimony, with South Africans noting that Masemola didn’t look as assured as Mkhwanazi.
This led many to recall previous comments made by the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader about the commissioner.
Source: Getty Images
What did Malema say about Masemola?
During a Newzroom Afrika interview in 2022, the EFF’s Commander-in-Chief suggested that Masemola was appointed to the role because he was easy to manipulate. Masemola took over from Lieutenant-General Khehla Sithole in 2022. Malema also stated that Masemola couldn’t even type an email.
“Do you know that he cannot type an email? The whole Commissioner of Police,” Malema stated.
Social media users at the time accused Malema of being a hypocrite, recalling how he originally praised the new commissioner’s appointment.
What you need to know about the commission so far
- Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi said the criminal justice system faced the risk of total collapse.
- Lt-Gen Mkhwanazi exposed how the justice system freed repeat offenders.
- The KZN Police Commissioner accused the Presidency of interfering with investigations.
- Masemola praised the Political Killings Task Team's crime-fighting abilities.
- Masemola alleged that councillors were faking their own assassination attempts to get more funds for security.
South Africans recall Malema’s comments
With Masemola’s appearance leaving a lot to be desired, South Africans recalled the EFF leader’s comments about him, and it wasn’t long before the original video surfaced.
@Yandi_4 joked:
“You will be happy to learn that there are a lot of Masemolas in government 😂. They know that if things were equal, they would never be where they are.”
@Mthuli4 stated:
“We all know Masemola did woodwork at school.”
@En100rd said:
“Malema is always 50 steps ahead. Look at the praise and worship that is being given to General Mkhwanazi; it was said long ago by Malema. But the hate for Malema is on another level.”
@drtmusicsa added:
“😆Today I can say yeah, I think he can't type an email🤔.”
@MalaviMmapimele said:
“That is not his job requirement. That EFF clown is always here to belittle South Africans and promote anything foreign.”
@victimsync01 stated:
“Malema is a blessing to this country.”
@PalesaGopane1 added:
“I confirm that now CIC😯.”
Masemola's response at Madlanga Commission raises concerns
Briefly News reported that Masemola was the first witness to testify at the Madlanga Commission after Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi.
Masemola's performance during his first hour left many concerned as he was grilled by Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga.
South Africans shared their thoughts on Masemola's response to a question about whether he would defy instructions from the Police Minister.
Source: Briefly News
