In January 2026, thousands gathered outside a South African court to show support for Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), during his court appearance. However, a photograph circulated online claiming to depict this event was actually taken at a 2025 protest in Amsterdam related to Gaza.
The incorrect use of the image has caused confusion about the scale and nature of the gathering in South Africa. Fact-checking confirms that the photo does not represent the recent court event involving Malema.
**Why this matters**
Accurate representation of events is crucial for public understanding and trust in news reporting. Misattributed images can distort perceptions and spread misinformation, impacting political discourse and public opinion.