Julius Malema
By Thobeka Makume
In a moment that has gone viral across South African social media, Operation Dudula president Zandile Dabula struggled to define “Frontline States” during a live ENCA interview with host Asanda Beda on 19 October 2025.
The awkward exchange, which has amassed nearly 100,000 engagements, has drawn sharp criticism, including from EFF leader Julius Malema, who called it “proper garbage.” This incident highlights ongoing tensions between historical pan-African solidarity and current debates on immigration in South Africa.
The Frontline States were a coalition of southern African nations, including Angola, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, that supported South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle from the 1960s to the 1990s through military aid, training, and sanctions. Dabula’s inability to explain this key historical concept has sparked mockery and questions about her knowledge of South African history, especially given Operation Dudula’s stance on foreign nationals.
The Viral ENCA Interview: Dabula’s Struggle with ‘Frontline States’
During the live discussion on ENCA, host Asanda Beda asked Dabula about the Frontline States in the context of Operation Dudula’s actions against migrants from these countries. Despite repeated prompting, Dabula appeared confused and unable to provide a definition. “I don’t know what are ‘Frontline states’,” she admitted, leading to an uncomfortable moment that quickly spread online.
Videos of the interview, shared on platforms like YouTube and Facebook, have garnered thousands of views. One clip titled “ZANDILE DABULA OF DUDULA EMBARRASSED ON LIVE TV” has over 48 views in just hours, with commenters expressing disbelief. “Everyone is making fun of her,” one Facebook post noted, reflecting the widespread ridicule.
The exchange occurred amid discussions on Operation Dudula’s recent clinic blockades targeting migrants, which critics say contradict the historical support South Africa received from neighbouring nations during apartheid.
Malema’s Scathing Response: ‘Proper Garbage with No Clue’
EFF president Julius Malema wasted no time in responding to the clip, slamming Dabula’s performance. “We are subjected to rubbish, like proper garbage with no clue non whatsoever. Mxm,” Malema posted, expressing frustration at what he sees as uninformed leadership in anti-immigrant movements.
Malema has long criticised Operation Dudula, calling it a “group of thugs” in September 2025 and demanding investigations into its activities. His latest comments tie into the EFF’s pan-African stance, which emphasises solidarity with other African nations. The party has positioned itself against xenophobic policies, arguing they divide the working class and distract from real issues like unemployment and inequality.
This is not the first clash between Malema and Operation Dudula. In July 2025, he questioned the group’s motives, and in September, he reiterated calls for probes into their operations.
Operation Dudula’s Controversial Stance and Recent Actions
Founded in 2021, Operation Dudula has gained attention for its anti-immigrant campaigns, including protests against foreign-owned businesses and blockades of public services for undocumented migrants. Led by Dabula, the group argues it protects South African jobs and resources amid economic woes.
However, critics like Malema accuse it of xenophobia and vigilantism. The ENCA interview has amplified these criticisms, with many questioning Dabula’s understanding of history. “The very identity of Operation Dudula’s president is being questioned,” one report noted.
The group has defended its actions, claiming they address government failures in immigration control. But incidents like clinic blockades have drawn backlash, especially given South Africa’s history of receiving support from Frontline States during the struggle.
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