SUNDAY NEWSPAPER REPORT ON ANC 'CHARGING' COMRADE JULIUS MALEMA INCORRECT 

The African National Congress (ANC) has noted with shock and disbelief a Sunday newspaper report claiming: "ANC spokesperson Jackson Mthembu alluded that Malema could be charged despite the ANC Youth League's apology". The ANC National Spokesperson never uttered the words during an interview with the Sunday Independent (see here).

The ANC wants to set the record straight and reiterate what the ANC National Spokesperson said during an interview with the Sunday Independent. We note the apology by the ANC Youth League (ANCYL) and the retraction of the statement on Botswana.

The National Spokesperson explained to the Sunday Independent journalist that whether to accept or not to accept the ANC Youth League apology was a matter before the structures of the ANC to decide. The National Spokesperson indicated that the ANC - in dealing with this matter - will have to weigh whether the ANCYL apology and the retraction does reverse the damage already caused to the image of the ANC and that of the country. It is only when such a determination has been made by ANC leadership that a public statement will be issued on behalf of the movement on the matter.

During the interview, the National Spokesperson also alluded to the fact that the original ANCYL statement on Botswana and reference to African leaders, was being considered by the ANC to be a transgression - particularly as it related to the ANC and our Government's foreign policy. This is a matter the ANC will also have to consider as it looks at the apology and the retraction.

At no stage did the National Spokesperson mention ANC Youth League President,Comrade Julius Malema, as facing disciplinary action. At no stage was the interview about Comrade Malema, but about the significance of the apology. The ANC has subsequently raised this matter formally with the Sunday Independent journalist and the newspaper.

Statement issued by the African National Congress, August 14 2011

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter