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Malema calls mining tycoon MySol a "small boy" at rally

Published

EFF leader Julius Malema attacked North West businessman Solomon "MySol" Madibela at a recent rally. Madibela replied on WhatsApp, and the exchange has split public opinion.

Malema said at the rally: "there's no MySol who will enjoy mining money alone". Madibela is a mining tycoon from North West.

Malema's supporters say he is standing up for poor mining communities. They say he is pushing back against unchecked corporate wealth and wants local wealth to benefit the public.

Critics of Malema see it differently. They call his remarks dangerous populist intimidation aimed at a successful self-made entrepreneur, and say he mixes political power with private business.

Key facts

Who
Julius Malema (EFF leader); Solomon Madibela (North West mining tycoon, known as MySol)
What
During a recent rally, Malema labelled Madibela a "small boy" and said there was no MySol who would enjoy mining money alone. Madibela fired back via WhatsApp, and the exchange has polarised opinion.
When
26 October 2026
Where
North West
Status
Reported

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