Polokwane - Expelled ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema on Thursday accused President Jacob Zuma of orchestrating a political conspiracy against him.
“All charges, it's a political conspiracy by (Zuma) and his administration,” Malema told the Polokwane Magistrate's Court, where he appeared on corruption charges.
Malema is accused of 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.
His co-accused are his business associates Kagisho Dichabe, Lesiba Gwangwa, Helen Moreroa, and Makgetsi Manthata, who are out on bail of R40 000 each.
The State and the defence teams argued for and against the matter being postponed on Thursday.
The court was expected to transfer the matter to the high court and set a trial date.
The State alleges the accused 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.
Malema allegedly did this knowing the money formed part of the proceeds of crime.
All five have proclaimed their innocence. - Sapa