‘You are a small boy’: Malema fires warning at mining tycoon MySol

The political and business scenes are buzzing after a fiery public showdown between EFF leader Julius Malema and North West mining tycoon Solomon “MySol” Madibela.

During a recent rally, Malema took direct aim at the businessman, labeling him a “small boy” and declaring “there’s no MySol who will enjoy mining money alone”.

The confrontation didn’t stay on the stage as Madibela quickly fired back via WhatsApp, sparking a viral back-and-forth that has polarised opinions across the country.

Malema’s supporters argue he is standing up for impoverished mining communities, pushing back against unchecked corporate accumulation and ensuring local wealth actually benefits the public.

These mines will service our people… These mines will not service MySol. MySol se foot. I will repeat, MySol se foot. You must tell him that he’s a small boy to me.

Critics view his remarks as dangerous populist intimidation, targeting a successful self-made entrepreneur and mixing political clout with private enterprise.

I am not scared of boys who think they have got money… He must go around and ask about me… I’ll put you in your place.

ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula has promised to intervene in the feud, pledging to contact Malema to understand the dispute and seek an amicable resolution, while defending Madibela as a “solid entrepreneur.”