One X for govt, one for Murray – 'vandal'

2012-05-23 14:26

Loyiso Sidimba, City Press

Johannesburg - One of the men accused of defacing Brett Murray’s controversial portrait of President Jacob Zuma says he painted the two “X” symbols for the ANC-led government, which he described as going in the wrong direction, and for Murray’s portrait, for mocking Zuma.

The case of businessman Barend la Grange and his co-accused, taxi driver Louis Mabokela, was today postponed in the Hillbrow Magistrates Court until June 28.

Both men are charged with malicious damage to property after allegedly defacing the painting at the Goodman Gallery in Johannesburg by smearing paint on it.

La Grange has denied knowing Mabokela.

Mabokela said he had laid assault charges against the Goodman Gallery security guard who arrested him on Tuesday.

Mabokela and La Grange were released on R1 000 bail each.

The third suspect, George Moyo, who tried to spray-paint the word “respect” outside the gallery was also released on R1 000 bail on Tuesday.

Felt free

Moyo, who was accompanied by a group of ANC supporters, refused to comment about his arrest and the incident.

Moyo and the ANC supporters thanked and shook La Grange’s hand when they met at the Johannesburg Magistrates Court, where he and Mabokela were initially due to appear.

Moyo returns to the Hillbrow Magistrates Court on June 14 and has also been charged with malicious damage to property.

He said Murray and his art were putting people’s lives in danger and that the artist’s actions were causing racial tension.

La Grange described himself as a Kempton Park businessman who works with his sons.

Mabokela said he felt free after defacing The Spear. He said Murray’s portrait was disrespectful to Zuma and “our parents”.

- City Press