Rumors of a split between Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and his wife, Mantwa Matlala, have intensified following reports that Matlala has moved out of their matrimonial home.
According to sources close to the couple, Matlala relocated to an apartment in Bryanston, north of Johannesburg, last year, marking a significant turn in their relationship.
Rocky Road and Privacy
Whispers of trouble in paradise first began in late 2024 when followers noticed Malema had removed photos of his wife from his Instagram account. While the couple has remained silent on the rumors, an insider confirmed to the media that they have been living separately for some time.
“She left their home last year, 2025,” a source revealed. “Things have been rocky for some time, but they are keeping things very private.”
A United Front Amidst Legal Battles
Despite the alleged separation, the couple is reportedly maintaining a united front for public appearances. This strategic maneuver is largely due to Malema’s ongoing legal troubles.
Malema recently appeared at the East London Magistrate’s Court on January 23, 2026, for pre-sentencing proceedings following his October 2025 conviction on five charges, including the unlawful possession and discharge of a firearm in public during a 2018 rally.
During the pre-sentencing phase, social worker Jessie Thompson testified on the potential impact of a custodial sentence on Malema’s family, noting he is a father of three, aged 19, 9, and 7. The couple is expected to make selected appearances together to avoid making their marital issues the center of attention during this critical period.
