EFF’s Malema and Ndlozi showed no remorse in assault case – AfriForum

EFF’s Julius Malema and Mbuyiseni Ndlozi showed absolutely no remorse during their assault trial at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court.

Minority-rights organisation AfriForum has slammed the two EFF leaders for their testimonies in court, with Ndlozi taking the stand on Friday.

The two allegedly assaulted police officer, Lieutenant Colonel Johannes Venter at the funeral of the late apartheid stalwart Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.

NDLOZI SMILES IN COURT DURING TESTIMONY

Ndlozi was seen smiling several times throughout his testimony. His demeanour was even questioned by State Prosecutor Michelle Hart.

The EFF MP smiled when he explained to Hart that he pushed Hart. Asked why he was smiling, Ndlozi did not respond but instead said watching the CCTV footage evidence reminded him of the humiliation.

ALSO READ: EFF’s Malema and Ndlozi assault case postponed for judgement

AFRIFORUM SEES NO REMORSE FROM EFF ACCUSED

The testimonies of Malema and Ndlozi were clear indications that the two had no remorse for their actions, said AfriForum.

“The SAPS’ only role is to protect the community and prominent politicians must be held accountable if they do not respect this role,” said campaign officer for strategy and content Reiner Duvenage.

He said AfriForum, which acts in terms of a watching brief on the matter, will continue to stand for justice in the matter.

MALEMA CONFIDENT OF ACQUITTAL OF ASSAULT

Speaking outside the court, the EFF leader said he is confident the court will rule in their favour.

Malema said they did not believe from the onset that there was a case. Even though the court declined their application for the matter to be withdrawn, he said majority of the judgment seemed to be in their favour.

“80% of the judgment agreed with us. It was unfortunate that [the magistrate] did not give us [a withdrawal in terms of Section] 174.”

“We are confident that it will be ruled in our favour… That was self-defence. We defended our dignity. We defended our right to mourn. We are more convinced that there is no one who will willy-nilly violate our rights which are protected by the Constitution – even if you are a police officer.”

Julius Malema

rorisang@thesouthafrican.com