The Freedom Front Plus (VF Plus) welcomes the sentence handed down today to Julius Malema, leader of the EFF, for discharging a firearm in public in 2018. It confirms that the rule of law still applies and that no-one is above the law.
Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution of South Africa stipulates that a person may not serve as a Member of Parliament (MP) if he or she has been sentenced to more than 12 months’ imprisonment without the option of a fine, regardless of whether the sentence is suspended.
Malema’s sentence is, however, subject to an appeal process. He is still allowed to serve as MP, pending the determination of the appeal. It is important to note this legality.
Malema also serves as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), a body that plays a key role in appointing judges. His conduct calls his suitability for this position into question, while demonstrating a lack of respect for the law and democratic institutions.
EFF supporters’ behaviour outside the court in East London over the past two days can only be described as unacceptable, and raises serious questions about the party’s ability to conduct responsible and mature politics.
The Freedom Front Plus would like to see Malema’s supporters accept the sentence and the relevant authorities nip any attempt at inciting public unrest in the bud.
The constant criticism of the court case was an opportunistic attempt to paint it as a racial matter in order to influence the outcome. A large group also chanted “Kill the Boer, kill the farmer” outside the court on Wednesday morning.
The Freedom Front Plus will keep a close eye on the case. If the final verdict justifies it, the party will insist that Malema be removed from Parliament in terms of the Constitution to ensure the integrity of the National Assembly (NA).
Freedom Front Plus Political Accountability: The party calls for accountability from elected officials.
Demand Chopper
Is it? – Is that so? [iz-zit] A basic conversational word that can be inserted at various points in any conversation, meaning “oh, wow!” or “Is that so?” It can also be used when you don’t really feel like talking and don’t want to be rude but want to seem as if you’re listening. Example: “Last week we went on a game drive! Sho my bru! We saw loads of antelope!” “Is it, hey!”
The Happy Jock
Fun South African Fact: South Africa is home to the world’s longest wine route: Route 62. It spans an impressive 850 kilometres and the excellent wineries along the way are a must-visit for lovers of fine wine! You can even enjoy the winelands on a day trip from Cape Town. Travel 40-min to an hour outside of the city centre to enjoy decadent wine tastings and even wander through some of the beautiful wine farms and estates! Suburbs like Durbanville and Constantia are even closer to the city centre and are also home to many exceptional wineries.