Johannesburg - The police have promised to “act accordingly” if anyone breaks the law during this weekend’s official launch of Julius Malema’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in the North West mining region of Marikana.
“For us it’s a simple approach. If you breach the law, the police will act accordingly to ensure that the perpetrators are dealt with,” said Brigadier Thulani Ngubane, North West provincial police spokesman, adding that extra officers would be deployed to Marikana.
Suggesting that rival political parties would not be welcome at EFF’s launch event, Ngubane said: “For us, the duty is to ensure that the meeting is only for those who are invited, with regard to the launch. If it’s EFF members, let it be. If it’s Amcu (Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union), let it be. It is only fair that you don’t intrude on any other person’s business.”
Ngubane warned members against the carrying of dangerous weapons, reminding them to abide by the new Dangerous Weapons Act.
“We have been told to expect 5 000 people, and will deploy extra police, in terms of our risk assessment.”
The EFF’s decision to launch in Marikana could be seen as a calculated move as Malema enjoys support among some local residents and mineworkers, especially Amcu members. Amcu is a fierce rival of the ANC-aligned National Union of Mineworkers.
After the Independent Electoral Commission this week handed the EFF its certificate confirming its registration as a political party, Malema accused ANC members of using “mafia tactics” to impede the EFF’s progress.
The Star