Politics
South Africa: Youth leader appeals to ANC to overturn suspension
South Africa’s fiery youth leader Julius Malema (pictured) on Monday asked the ruling African National Congress (ANC) to set aside his five-year suspension, in a bellwether for President Jacob Zuma‘s reelection bid.
His appeal began without any of the unrest that plagued the start of his disciplinary hearing in August, when his supporters clashed with police in downtown Johannesburg.
The party, which has run South Africa since Nelson Mandela became the first black president in 1994, kept a thick veil of secrecy on the proceedings.
“It’s a pending decision. Nobody will talk to the media about the matter,” ANC spokesman Keith Khoza said.
Five other ANC Youth League leaders will appeal similar suspensions during the same hearings, by a committee that includes senior party leaders such as businessman Cyril Ramaphosa, Justice Minister Jeff Radebe and National Planning Minister Trevor Manuel.
A dozen journalists outnumbered onlookers at the ANC headquarters in central Johannesburg early Monday morning, while a few police officers stood guard.
A lone protester wearing an ANC shirt and cap and chains around his neck, waist, wrists and ankles urged Ramaphosa to be harsh.
