Julius Malema Rejects Feroz Khan Allegations As Madlanga Commission Weighs Testimony

The Madlanga Commission has heard allegations linking EFF leader Julius Malema to senior Crime Intelligence official Feroz Khan, but Malema has strongly denied any wrongdoing. The commission is also yet to decide whether the opposition leader will be called to give evidence. Testimony relating to the claims was presented during proceedings on Tuesday.

Feroz Khan is currently recovering in hospital after being seriously injured in what investigators believe was an attempted assassination last month.

During the hearings, evidence leaders focused on WhatsApp conversations allegedly exchanged between Khan and alleged tobacco smuggler Mohammed “Mo” Sayed. The messages form part of the commission’s ongoing investigation.

Malema And Feroz Khan Allegations Examined At Madlanga Commission

Evidence leader Matthew Chaskalson told the commission that the WhatsApp messages allegedly contain references involving Julius Malema. According to the evidence presented, the conversations suggest Malema, Khan and Sayed were involved in efforts aimed at removing former Inspector-General of Intelligence Isaac Dintwe.

The commission also heard allegations that Khan allegedly supplied Malema with sensitive information. This reportedly included the identity and home address of the VBS Mutual Bank curator who was responsible for initiating corruption charges against the EFF leader.

Additional claims presented to the commission suggest Malema backed Khan in avoiding disciplinary action linked to alleged financial misconduct. The WhatsApp conversations also reportedly mention procurement issues, including discussions concerning a South African Police Service fleet management tender.

One of the exchanges allegedly includes Sayed claiming that information relating to Bertobrite’s tender submission came from “Juju”, a nickname commonly associated with Malema. Bertobrite has previously been linked to allegations of bribery involving a City of Tshwane fuel tender.

Julius Malema Denies Claims And Challenges WhatsApp Messages

Malema has responded to the allegations through an affidavit submitted to the commission. The document was filed in response to claims contained in an affidavit by commission investigator Tshepo Nyatlo.

The affidavit also addresses Malema’s relationship with Carnilinx CEO Adriano Mazzotti. Malema confirmed that Mazzotti donated R600,000 to assist with the registration of the EFF, but denied there was anything improper about the contribution.

He also rejected allegations relating to his family’s accommodation arrangements. Malema stated that it was already public knowledge that his wife had lived in the same residential complex as Mazzotti under a lease agreement, while dismissing reports that he and his family stayed at Mazzotti’s Sandton penthouse without paying.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Ramaphosa Extends SANDF Deployment Until 31 July To Support Police Nationwide

Addressing the WhatsApp conversations, Malema said he could not verify whether the messages were genuine.

“I evidently cannot confirm whether these extracts are a true recording of their engagements or the authenticity of those extracts.

“I simply record this point to note that my response will be curtailed to claims that are in my personal knowledge and relating to me.”

Malema further stated that, as a Member of Parliament, it is common for him to receive information from members of the public, including law enforcement officials.

Madlanga Commission Yet To Decide On Julius Malema Testimony

Despite Malema’s written response, the Madlanga Commission has not confirmed whether he will be summoned to testify. The decision remains with the commission’s evidence leaders as proceedings continue.

Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels declined to indicate whether Malema would be called to appear before the inquiry.

“Let’s see. This matter is in the hands of the evidence leaders, and obviously, the commission is seeking to be fair to all those who have been implicated as we have seen consistently,” Michaels told reporters after proceedings were adjourned for in-camera hearings.