UN employee suspected of smuggling Congo minerals

Derel Hanekom, Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee

South Africa: ANC to change venue of disciplinary hearing
Funke Atohengbe, Pretoria

South Africa’s ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC) has decided to move the disciplinary hearing of the leaders of its Youth League, from Luthuli House, the party’s headquarters in the Johannesburg city centre.

The Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, Derel Hanekom said the decision was taken following the disruption last week of businesses situated around the ANC headquarters, venue of the hearing.

A law firm had given the ANC until 16:00 hours on Tuesday to indicate whether it would move the hearing out of the Johannesburg Central Business District or face legal action.

Disruptions

Last week, streets around Luthuli House were closed as supporters of the ANC Youth League President, Julius Malema pelted policemen and journalists with stones.

The head of the law firm, Piet du Plessis said it lost business as potential and existing clients refused to enter the area, fearing for their safety.

The hearing was scheduled to resume on Sunday, September 11, at a venue yet to be announced.

The ANC is conducting disciplinary hearings after it charged the leaders of its youth wing with various violations of the party's constitution.

Malema, Floyd Shivambu, the League's spokesperson, and three other members of the executive are facing charges related to comments they made on plans to help effect regime change in Botswana and bringing the ANC into disrepute.

Ekata