Malema set to plead not guilty

2011-09-15 07:19

Johannesburg - The disciplinary hearing of ANC Youth League president Julius Malema, four other office bearers and spokesperson Floyd Shivambu is expected to continue on Thursday.

According to SABC news, Malema was expected to plead not guilty when he took the stand on Thursday.

The hearing was postponed on Tuesday because of the availability of all parties.

The hearings are being held at the Klipriviersberg Recreation Centre in Kibler Park, south of Johannesburg.

Malema, ANC Youth League secretary general Sindiso Magaqa, deputy president Ronald Lamola, treasurer general Pule Mabe, and deputy secretary general Kenetswe Mosenogi, are facing several charges.

This came after comments that the youth league would help bring about regime change in Botswana, a statement considered to be embarrassing for the South African government in diplomatic circles.

The ANCYL leaders face charges in terms of rule 25.5 (q) and rule 25.5(o) of the ANC's constitution, which deals with members' discipline.

On the opening day of the hearings at ANC headquarters in Sauer Street, Johannesburg, groups of people pledging support for Malema threw stones, bricks and bottles in the streets of the CBD.

The venue of the hearing was subsequently changed.

- SAPA