Malema addresses Lonmin mourners

SAPA

(File photo) Julius Malema. Photo: Werner Beukes/SAPA

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Rustenburg - The government did not do anything for the 34 slain miners in Marikana, expelled ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema said on Thursday.

“Under democracy our people will be protected. But government has turned against its people,” Malema told a memorial service for the dead miners in Marikana, North West.

He accused members of government of only attending the memorial service to pose for news cameras. He called businessman Cyril Ramaphosa arrogant after his investment holding company, Shanduka, announced on Saturday that it would contribute R2 million towards the burial of the miners.

“He is like, we will kill you and pay for your burials,” Malema said.

“Government has failed to get involved, because they are involved in the mine. This is a mining revolution and we will not surrender.”

The crowd cheered Malema on as he spoke.

Earlier, local residents addressed mourners and said workers still wanted their salaries increased to R12 500.

Before addressing the mourners, Malema chanted: “Forward to 12 500, forward.”

He also thanked the Friends of the Youth League and claimed they paid for the white marquee and sound system that had been set up for the occasion.

Before Malema spoke, mourners became rowdy when an unidentified man went on stage and called for President Jacob Zuma to resign.

“Jacob Zuma should resign as president of South Africa,” he said, to cheers.

“Number two, Julius Malema is back in the ANC.”

After he spoke the whole crowd cheered.

When Malema finished talking, the mourners sang and cheered him on before dispersing. - Sapa