Malema: I did not steal from you

092 13.07.2013 Commander in chief of Economic Freedom Fighter Julius Malema, arrives at Qhuweng sports grounds in Sebokeng, South of Gauteng. Picture: Itumeleng English

092 13.07.2013 Commander in chief of Economic Freedom Fighter Julius Malema, arrives at Qhuweng sports grounds in Sebokeng, South of Gauteng. Picture: Itumeleng English

Published Nov 18, 2013

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Polokwane - EFF leader Julius Malema has denied stealing from South Africans, saying he has no criminals in his family.

“I will never betray you. I did not steal from you. I will never steal from you. I will never do that to you,” he told his supporters outside the Polokwane High Court on Monday shortly after his corruption trial was postponed to next year.

“In my family, I don't have a history of criminals.”

The former ANC Youth League leader appeared for allegedly making nearly R4 million from corrupt activities. He is out on bail of R10 000 and faces charges of fraud, corruption, money-laundering, and racketeering.

Malema's co-accused are his business associates Kagisho Dichabe, Lesiba Gwangwa, Helen Moreroa, and Makgetsi Manthata. They are out on bail of R40 000 each.

The State alleges Malema and the others misrepresented themselves to the Limpopo roads and transport department, leading to a R52m contract being awarded to On-Point Engineering.

According to court papers, Malema had business ties with Gwangwa, a director of On-Point Engineering. Malema's Ratanang Family Trust was an indirect shareholder in On-Point.

The department paid the company R43m. According to the charge sheet, Malema substantially benefited from this payment, using it to buy a farm and a Mercedes-Benz. - Sapa

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