Julius Malema’s African National Congress (ANC) membership was suspended with immediate effect on Wednesday.

The party decided to suspend Malema for a second time after he called President Jacob Zuma a “dictator” for suppressing the youth during a speech he delivered at Wits University on Friday.

The ANC’s Keith Khoza said, “The NDC (National Disciplinary Committee) has decided to suspend comrade Julius Malema for his utterances during his address at Wits, where he made certain allegations against the president.”

In March, the ANC’s National Disciplinary Appeals Panel wrapped up its hearings on whether Malema should be expelled.

Malema was found guilty of sowing division in the party and bringing the ANC into disrepute over comments he made about Botswana.

His lawyers previously argued the entire prosecution was politically motivated and had nothing to do with matters of discipline or process.

Malema himself hinted that he believed this issue was politically motivated and was being driven by Zuma.

In recent weeks the ANCYL leader has said he would take the party to court should he be expelled.

To read the ANC’s full statement click here.

(Edited by Clare Matthes)

 A story taken from http://www.ewn.co.za and for more information log on to their website.