Malema 'immature, reckless and committing political suicide'

Johannesburg - Long-standing supporters of former ANC Youth leader Julius Malema - including Limpopo premier Cassel Mathale and Minister of Sport and Recreation Fikile Mbalula - have publicly distanced themselves from his new party initiative, with the latter stating that his friend is immature, reckless and committing political suicide.

In an interview with the Sunday Independent, Mbalula denied being the brains behind Malema's political party and said: "He is my friend but this is where I draw the line. And I will remind him that, friendship aside, it is my duty to defend the ANC."

Mbalula said that he had no intention of joining a new party and described Malema's new initiative as "political adventurism". However, Mbalula, who is indirectly responsible for Malema's rise in the ANC Youth League, said he still believed "Julius can bounce back as a solid leader, only if he can remain patient" but added that what he is now doing is "reckless and erratic and speaks to a lack of political maturity."

Meanwhile, Mathale said: "I don't agree with it but he has the right to do it." He went on to say that as an ANC member "we are going to be on the opposite side of the fence".