Mabuyane Demands Apology and Retraction from Malema Over Fraudulent Degree Claims as SIU Probe Intensifies

Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has demanded a public apology and retraction from Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema over allegations that he obtained a fraudulent master’s degree from the University of Fort Hare. The demand comes amid an ongoing investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) into the authenticity of academic qualifications held by several public officials, including former Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Patricia de Lille and others linked to alleged qualification fraud.

The controversy resurfaced in early May 2024 when Malema, during a press briefing, questioned Mabuyane’s academic credentials, suggesting that the premier’s master’s degree in Development Finance from the University of Fort Hare was obtained through fraudulent means. Malema tied the accusation to a broader SIU probe into fake qualifications among government officials, implying that Mabuyane may be under investigation.

Mabuyane’s office swiftly rejected the claims, labeling them “baseless and malicious.” In a formal statement released on May 10, 2024, the premier’s spokesperson affirmed that Mabuyane completed his Master of Philosophy in Development Finance in 2015 through legitimate academic channels and that the university had verified the qualification. The statement further noted that no formal communication had been received from the SIU regarding Mabuyane’s credentials, contradicting Malema’s implication of an active probe.

“Premier Mabuyane has never been notified by the SIU of any investigation into his academic qualifications,” the statement read. “These allegations are part of a pattern of misinformation intended to undermine his leadership and distract from the real issues facing the Eastern Cape.”

The premier’s legal team has since instructed attorneys to prepare for potential legal action against Malema for defamation, citing the harm caused to Mabuyane’s reputation and public office. Mabuyane’s demand for a retraction and apology includes a requirement that Malema issue the statement through the same platforms used to spread the original claims.

The University of Fort Hare has also entered the fray, issuing a verification confirming that Oscar Mabuyane was awarded a Master of Philosophy in Development Finance in 2015 after fulfilling all academic requirements. The institution emphasized that its qualifications are awarded only after rigorous internal and external review processes and that no evidence of fraud has been found in Mabuyane’s case.

Malema, known for his confrontational rhetoric, has not retracted his statements. Instead, he doubled down during a subsequent EFF media briefing, urging President Cyril Ramaphosa to ensure accountability in the SIU’s investigations and suggesting that the premier’s qualifications should be scrutinized alongside those of other officials under review.

The SIU, established to investigate corruption, maladministration, and fraud in state affairs, confirmed in a May 2024 update that it is examining allegations of fraudulent qualifications involving several former and current public servants. However, the unit has not publicly named Mabuyane as a subject of its inquiry. SIU spokesperson Kaizer Mthembu reiterated that investigations are conducted confidentially until conclusions are reached and that public speculation risks compromising procedural integrity.

Legal experts note that defamation claims against public figures in South Africa require proof of actual malice — that the statement was made with knowledge of its falsity or reckless disregard for the truth. If Mabuyane proceeds with legal action, his team would need to demonstrate that Malema either knew the claims were false or showed reckless indifference to verifying them.

The dispute adds to a growing trend of political figures using academic qualifications as a battleground for public credibility. In recent years, several South African politicians have faced scrutiny over alleged fake degrees, prompting calls for stricter verification mechanisms for public office holders.

As the SIU continues its work, the outcome of its investigations — and whether Mabuyane’s name will be formally cleared or implicated — remains uncertain. For now, the premier stands by his academic record and insists that Malema’s comments cross the line from political critique into harmful misinformation.

Mabuyane’s demand for accountability reflects a broader call for responsible discourse in South Africa’s polarized political environment, where unverified claims can quickly gain traction and cause lasting reputational harm.

Key Takeaways

• Eastern Cape Premier Oscar Mabuyane has demanded a public apology and retraction from EFF leader Julius Malema over allegations that his master’s degree from the University of Fort Hare is fraudulent.
• The claims emerged amid an ongoing SIU investigation into fake qualifications among public officials, though the SIU has not confirmed Mabuyane is under investigation.
• The University of Fort Hare has verified that Mabuyane legitimately earned his Master of Philosophy in Development Finance in 2015.
• Mabuyane’s legal team is preparing for potential defamation action against Malema for reputational harm.
• The SIU maintains that its investigations are confidential and has not named any individuals publicly in connection with the qualification probe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What degree does Oscar Mabuyane hold, and from which institution?

Oscar Mabuyane holds a Master of Philosophy in Development Finance from the University of Fort Hare, which he completed in 2015.

Has the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) accused Oscar Mabuyane of fraud?

No. As of May 2024, the SIU has not publicly named Oscar Mabuyane as a subject of its investigation into fraudulent qualifications, despite claims by Julius Malema suggesting otherwise.

What action is Mabuyane taking against Julius Malema?

Mabuyane has demanded a public apology and retraction from Malema and has instructed his legal team to pursue defamation proceedings if the claims are not withdrawn.

Has the University of Fort Hare confirmed Mabuyane’s qualification?

Yes. The university has officially verified that Oscar Mabuyane was awarded a Master of Philosophy in Development Finance in 2015 after meeting all academic requirements.

Why is this controversy significant?

The dispute highlights the growing use of academic qualification allegations in South African politics and underscores the need for accurate information and responsible public discourse, especially amid ongoing anti-corruption investigations.