Julius Malema faces a criminal charge of animal cruelty

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema faces a criminal charge of animal cruelty for what the National Council of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) calls the inhumane slaughtering of a cow.

JULIUS MALEMA FACES A CRIMINAL CHARGE OF ANIMAL CRUELTY

This after a video on social media platforms showed Malema taking several jabs on the back of the animal’s head using a knife.

The footage surfaced during the buildup of the EFF’s 10th birthday celebrations, where animals donated to the party were being prepared for festivities, triggering a wave of outrage.

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THE VIDEO SHOWS MALEMA TAKING SEVERAL JABS ON THE BACK OF THE ANIMAL’S HEAD

The NSPCA Public Relations & Legal Liaison Jacques Peacock said it was horrified after observing the video and has received numerous complaints from the public regarding the video circulating on social media platforms.

“The aforesaid video clearly shows Malema attempting to paralyse a cow by pithing it (i.e., attempting to pierce or sever the spinal cord of the animal so as to kill or immobilise it).

“It is evident from the video that Malema uses two small knives and inflicts more than 11 stabs and over 60 instances of twisting the knife into the fully conscious animal’s poll.”

Jacques Peacock said

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MALEMA REPEATEDLY INFLICTED PAIN AND CAUSED UNNECESSARY SUFFERING TO THE ANIMAL

It furthermore said Malema repeatedly inflicted pain and caused unnecessary suffering to the animal and it is evident that the animal endured significant distress.

The Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962 (“the Act”) is a crucial piece of legislation that aims to protect all animals from unnecessary pain, suffering, and cruelty.

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“It is essential that all individuals, including public figures and leaders, who are expected to set an example, uphold and respect these laws.

THE NSPCA WILL WORK CLOSELY WITH AUTHORITIES TO ENSURE A COMPREHENSIVE INVESTIGATION

“After a thorough investigation into the contraventions depicted in the video, the NSPCA has laid criminal charges against Malema in accordance with the Act. The NSPCA will work closely with law enforcement and the Prosecuting Authority to ensure a comprehensive investigation and prosecution of the case.”

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