Winnie defends Malema

Malema at a party disciplinary hearing yesterday, saying the young had been setting the organisation’s policy since the 1940s.
Madikizela-Mandela – the ex-wife of anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela – was the last witness for Malema in the disciplinary matter in which he has been charged with bringing the ruling ANC into disrepute.

Malema, leader of the ANC Youth League, faces suspension or expulsion from the ruling party if found guilty.
Madikizela-Mandela (75) told reporters after testifying that she could not speak about an internal party process but said she had clarified the role of youth in the ANC dating back several decades.

“The youth of this country has always set the direction the organisation must take, dating back to the late 40s,” she said.
“The youth has always been more radical than the mother body and it is necessary to have a youth that is vocal and radical because the policies of the organisation come from the younger generation.”

Malema has unnerved investors with his calls to nationalise mines, seize white-owned land and a declaration of “economic war” on the white minority that still controls much of Africa’s largest economy.
The Youth League plans to march to the Chamber of Mines and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange on Thursday as part of a programme of action against youth unemployment and to push for nationalisation. Police said yesterday they would be out in full force to prevent any repeat of the violence which broke out on the first day of Malema’s hearing on August 30. The disciplinary hearing is seen as a showdown between Malema and President Jacob Zuma – who came to power with the backing of the ANC Youth League. – Reuters.