The Equality Court in Johannesburg today penalised Julius Malema with a cost order because of his failure to submit a plea by the date set by the court.

Malema already should have submitted his plea in the Equality Court procedures instituted by AfriForum by 30 November 2010, but in spite of several reminders, failed to do so.

Today in the South Gauteng High Court, Judge Colin Lamont ordered Malema to submit a plea within three days and in addition ordered Malema to pay the wasted legal expenses of AfriForum, including the fees of a junior and a senior advocate.

AfriForum's legal representative, Willie Spies, stated in response that Malema has to get the message that he is not above the law.

The case will be heard in court from 11 April 2011, with or without Malema's plea.

Afriforum will go ahead with its public campaign to garner national support against the hate speech of Malema.

Statement issued by Willie Spies, Legal representative: AfriForum, January 19 2011

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