Solidarity lays another charge against Malema

Trade union Solidarity today laid another criminal charge of incitement to public violence and intimidation against suspended ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema.

Johan Kruger, spokesperson for Solidarity, says the latest charge against Malema comes after he addressed mineworkers at the Goldfields mine near Carletonville yesterday and called on all mineworkers to embark on a nationwide strike. "The charge that Solidarity laid against Malema today will be added to the charge sheet, as the trade union laid a charge of incitement to public violence and intimidation against him at the Lyttelton Police Station in Centurion last week. This action comes after violence broke out at Gold One's Modder East goldmine near Springs after Malema had addressed mineworkers. Solidarity feels that urgent intervention is needed to ensure that Malema is prevented from continuing his inciting statements and so-called mine revolution." 

Kruger says Solidarity is very concerned about the safety of both its members at the mines and other South Africans. "Malema's reign of terror cannot be allowed to continue, as it causes alarm and fear among ordinary South Africans. Malema is playing a dangerous game by exploiting mineworkers and inciting violence for personal gain at the cost of stability in the country. Malema is an opportunist who is exploiting the unrest at the mines in an attempt to resurrect his political career. He continues in his efforts to capitalise on the Marikana tragedy in order to advance his own political agenda."

Kruger says Solidarity will keep a close watch on Malema's planned speech to members of the South African National Defence Force today and any other similar gatherings and, if necessary, bring more charges against him should he continue to make inciting speeches in public.

Statement issued by Johan Kruger, Spokesperson: Solidarity, September 12 2012

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