By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has built a 10 000-seater dome in Khayelitsha to celebrate its 12th birthday, which party leader Julius Malema says will be a moment to reflect on 12 years of struggle, survival growth and victories.
Malema was addressing a media briefing in Cape Town to give an update on preparations for the birthday celebrations and other political developments.
The EFF’s anniversary celebrations were supposed to take place in Mthatha in the Eastern Cape, but had to be relocated due to the damage caused by thed devastation floods in the region.
“The EFF made the responsible decision to relocate the venue out of respect and solidarity with those affected. This change of venue was not done in isolation or without consultation.”
He said that Khayelitsha, an African National Congress (ANC) stronghold in a Democratic Alliance (DA)-run metro, was an obvious choice because of its sheer size and the party’s pro-poor agenda.
“This will not just be an event, it will be a festival of the poor, a moment to reflect on 12 years of struggle, survival growth and victories.”
Malema said the party was also making “huge inroads” in growing its support in the Western Cape after increasing its numbers in the last elections.
Masemola Arrest
Malema made the explosive allegation that a warrant of arrest is pending against National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola.
“There is a warrant of arrest against Masemola, it’s out. I don’t know why it’s not being picked up,” Malema said.
“It means someone, somewhere, is playing politics and wants to undermine the independence of our justice system.”
Malema alleges the warrant relates to Masemola’s alleged involvement in issues linked to crime intelligence.
“Masemola is being arrested for what he did with [Crime Intelligence chief Dumisani] Khumalo in Crime Intelligence. He was supposed to be arrested the same week when [KZN Police Commissioner] Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi had a press conference,” said Malema.
However national police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said SAPS is not aware of any warrant.
“SAPS is not aware of any warrant of arrest for General Masemola. Kindly redirect your questions to Malema. He may be in a better position to respond with more information, “she said.
Malema also claimed the EFF had long revealed plans to arrest Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, who was recently placed on special leave following damning allegations by Mkhwanazi.
These claims are now the subject of a commission of inquiry and a probe by an ad hoc parliamentary committee.
Kenny Kunene Controversy
Malema says Kenny Kunene should tell the truth about why he was at the house of a man suspected of killing musician and businessman, Oupa “DJ Sumbody” Sefako.
Kunene was found in a Sandton house where businessman Katiso “KT” Molefe was arrested for the murder of Sefako.
He told the police that he was there to facilitate an interview for a journalist who works for his online publication.
Malema said Kunene must tell the truth about his relationship with Molefe.
“I know that guy, not from a personal view, he is a well-known businessman. Until now, we knew him as a businessman, but I do not have a relationship with him like that where I can call [him] or go to his house… I do not know the guy like that, “he said.
Malema said Kunene’s reasons for being at Molefe’s house are not convincing.
The EFF leader also said he is in favour of Mkhwanazi continuing in his role as KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner.
He said he believes in Mkhwanazi’s ability to resolve some murder cases that have hit a dead end.
“Mkhwanazi’s contract is coming to and end in December. If anything, they must advertise that post now and then he must reapply and get reappointed again so that he can finish those thugs… I mean those ones that we sit with in parliament,” he said.