Julius Malema Accuses Magistrate Twanet Olivier of Racism and Links Her to AfriForum

East London – Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has launched a strong verbal attack on Magistrate Twanet Olivier following developments in his high-profile firearm case.

Speaking to supporters outside the court, Malema described Magistrate Olivier as “a racist of note” and claimed she does not properly apply the law. He further suggested that she may be aligned with or a member of the civil rights organisation AfriForum.

Malema’s Reaction

Malema made the remarks shortly after the magistrate’s ruling in the East London Magistrate’s Court (KuGompo). He alleged that the judgment was not based on law but driven by racial bias.

“That was not the law, that was racism,” Malema told the crowd. He added that Magistrate Olivier should be aware of her alleged racism “even in her sleep.”

He also questioned the magistrate’s impartiality and called on her to prove she is not connected to AfriForum.

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Context of the Case

The comments come amid ongoing legal proceedings in which Malema was convicted on charges related to the unlawful discharge of a firearm at a 2018 EFF event. Magistrate Olivier recently granted him leave to appeal both his conviction and the five-year imprisonment sentence, meaning he remains out of prison while the appeal process continues.

Malema and the EFF have consistently maintained that the case is politically motivated.

[WATCH] EFF leaders confronting Afriforum members in court following Julius Malema’s sentence. @JusstAlpha pic.twitter.com/n3prXeH2jQ

— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) April 16, 2026

Broader Reactions

Malema’s accusations have drawn mixed responses. Supporters of the EFF cheered the strong statements, viewing them as a defence against what they see as systemic bias in the judiciary. However, judicial watchdog groups have previously criticised similar remarks by Malema, describing them as attacks on the independence of the judiciary.

Magistrate Olivier has not publicly responded to the latest allegations.

The case is now expected to move to the High Court in Bhisho, where the appeal will be heard. The full legal process could take several years to conclude.

This latest development adds to the already heated political and legal debate surrounding the EFF leader’s court battle.