Malema 'not above the law'

2009-09-23 08:01

Daniëlla du Plooy

Johannesburg – The police reservist who has laid an assault charge against ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema, says it's a sad state of affairs when citizens of a country have reason to fear politicians.

The man alleged that Malema assaulted him early on Sunday morning during a party at Malema's house in Sandown, Sandton.

The reservist was not on duty at the time of the incident, and does not want to reveal his identity at this stage. He says Malema started the altercation.

"The problems (regarding Malema's noisy party) had actually been sorted out already, when he came out of the house and started shouting."

According to the reservist Malema said, among other things: "Do you know who I am? Do you know what I can do? Who the fuck are you?" Then Malema apparently slapped him several times.

Denial

On Monday, Malema - who also described himself as a "police reservist" - denied that the incident had taken place.

"I was fighting crime and I was an activist for law and order," said Malema. "It's strange that the man doesn't want to reveal his identity. He probably isn't a real policeman. He might even have been planted by Helen Zille!"

The reservist told Beeld on Tuesday that he had arrived at the party in a "civilian capacity".

"I went just after 03:00 to ask them to quieten down, since the party was very noisy. I didn't know it was Malema's party."

The man said he asked a Coin security guard to help him to get the partygoers to turn down the music.

"The guard was very helpful and he did that. But then Malema came out and started the trouble. After he swore at me he also slapped me and tried to take my police radio and my cellphone."

'Scared'

The reservist has submitted complaints of assault, intimidation and attempted robbery to the police.

"If the case goes to court, I will reveal my identity and testify," said the man. "I'm a little scared because I know he has a lot of power, but somebody must be willing to stand up against this guy.

"He is not above the law, even though he seems to think so."

Police spokesperson Eugene Opperman confirmed on Tuesday that the man reported the incident at Bramley police station.

"It will be investigated, and then the senior state prosecutor will decide if Malema will be prosecuted."

- Beeld