The money-laundering and racketeering case against expelled ANC Youth League president Julius Malema has been adjourned to Friday.

The State brought an application for the postponement after it failed to announce a High Court trial date as expected. The defence is however opposing the application. The charges against Malema and his five co-accused relate to a R52 million tender awarded by the Roads and Transport Department to On-Point Engineering Company.

Malema has shares in the company through the Ratanang Family Trust. Meanwhile, Malema, who was appearing with five co-accused, says there’s a political conspiracy against him. Malema told prosecutor Billy Moalusi that he is incompetent, a disgrace to the State and furthering political conspiracy against him.

He said the charges against him are politically motivated and are driven by President Jacob Zuma and his administration. He also told the court that the charges are hampering his plan to launch a political party. Malema is out on R10 000 bail while his co-accused were granted R40 000 bail each.

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