Judgment reserved in hate speech case against Malema

The South Gauteng High Court reserved judgment today in AfriForum's hate speech case against Julius Malema.

AfriForum indicated that they are looking forward to the verdict and are confident that their legal team succeeded in making a strong case of hate speech against Malema, thereby paving the way for a crucial national debate on the status of minorities and minority rights in South Africa.

According to Willie Spies, AfriForum's legal representative, AfriForum have already succeeded in their first objective, namely to show up Malema and the ANC's intolerance of minority communities.

Spies said it was ironic that the behaviour of Malema, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and their supporters outside the court building demonstrated the ANC's intolerance and made sure that this objective was realised.

"Heavily armed guards who tried to intimidate ordinary South Africans, the use of hate speech and other offensive behaviour outside the court said more about Malema and the ANC than any witness in the witness stand could," Spies said.

Malema's irresponsible remarks instead of sensible arguments during cross-examination strengthened AfriForum's case, according to Spies.

Spies indicated that Malema, among other things, admitted that the song also has a present-day meaning, because the struggle is not over according to him. Malema further admitted that the word ibhunu not only refers to a system of oppression, but also to people whom he sees as the oppressors.

AfriForum's heads of argument can be obtained at www.afriforum.co.za.

Statement issued by Willie Spies, Legal representative: AfriForum, May 20 2011

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