South African opposition firebrand Malema faces corruption charges

JOHANNESBURG South African opposition firebrand Julius Malema appeared in court charged with money laundering, racketeering and corruption on Tuesday, kicking off a hearing that could see President Jacob Zuma’s most vocal critic jailed.

Mr Malema formed the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in 2013 following his expulsion from the governing African National Congress (ANC).

“I knew coming from her it is genuine, it is true”.

The charges against Malema were first brought by prosecutors in September, 2012.

But as combative as ever, the former ANC youth league leader said he saw light at the end of the tunnel and was not afraid.

The court said the trial was postponed because one of the co-accused was sick and could not come to court.

“I want to thank everyone who stood by me and believed in my innocence”, Malema said.

On-Point Engineering directors Lesiba Gwangwa and Kagisho Dichabe are accused of doctoring the documents when bidding for the tender. The court heard that Dichabe has been hospitalised since last month.

They were accused of misrepresenting themselves to the Limpopo Roads and Transport Department, leading to a R52 million contract being awarded to On-Point Engineering. Malema’s Ratanang Family Trust was found to be a direct shareholder in the company, which therefore ties Malema with them.

The case was politically motivated, Malema told reporters outside the court, according to footage broadcast by eNCA.

Speaking to ANN7 SAPS provincial spokesperson Colonel Ronel Otto said that security measures were in place and there will be keeping a close eye on the designated area that they allocated to EFF supporters.

There was heavy police presence in Polokwane ahead of Malema’s appearance.