The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema has spoken out against the current government and the President's plans to address the energy crisis. Speaking at the SONA debate, Malema spoke on his party's intentions to table a motion of no-confidence against the Speaker of the National Assembly, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.

According to Malema, Mapisa-Nqakula referred to members of Parliament as "animals", adding that the EFF has withdrawn all honour and respect they had for her.

"South Africa's Constitution obliges anyone elected as President, to uphold, respect and defend the Constitution, and we can say boldly that Mr. Ramaphosa has failed to uphold, respect and defend the Constitution"- Julius Malema

Speaking on the President's role, Malema expressed that Ramaphosa renounced his privilege to continue as the President of the country, adding that things have gotten worse post-Zuma's term of office.

Malema called for those who have had enough, to join the EFF as they take to the streets in a National Shutdown next month. He further added that "only cowards who are in the pockets of capital will be scared to come to the streets."

Criticising the move to create the position of Minister of Electricity in the Presidency, Malema expressed that many State Owned Enterprises have failed under the Minister of Public Enterprises, Pravin Gordhan, and further questioned how he has still maintained his position as Minister.

Speaking on the issue of crime and policing, Malema accused the police of working with criminals and referred to some government officials as criminals. He further added, "we cannot fight crime led by criminals".

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has also issued out criticism towards Ramaphosa, describing his term of office as five years wasted.

DA leader, John Steenhuisen spoke on the state of energy and how that has plummeted in the past two years, adding that the daily power cuts is a serious crisis. 

The SONA debate is still underway at the Cape Town City Hall, and is set to take place over two days, with Ramaphosa set to give a reply on 16 February 2023.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow.