By Narend Ganesh
There is an African proverb that states “wherever a man goes to dwell, his character goes with him”, meaning a man is described by his character, regardless of his location.
EFF leader Julius Malema dispelled any apprehensions regarding his innate character as his near-violent outburst, threatening death against a member of the pan-African Parliament, which went viral, paradoxically, showed the kind of qualities he exhibits as a “leader”.
Malema is heard shouting at the member, “I will kill you outside, I will kill you, you don’t know me”.
This from a man who has aspirations of becoming the president of South Africa.
Whatever disagreement or dispute led to the altercation, one cannot expect a person considered a “leader” by some, to utter such words.
This rant affirms Malema’s levity in most situations we have come to witness regarding his public behaviour – acting at any opportunity to show bravado and chutzpah, albeit on the strength of others.
Malema’s cruel and prideful bigotry is legendary – but it also reminds us of what lurks in our midst – the proverbial wolf in sheep’s clothing, and his tempestuousness always gets the better of him when rationality and deference are demanded.
A threat of causing death to another cannot be wished away lightly, but coming from a so-called leader, it is a despicable act worthy of extreme censure and unbridled condemnation.
And South Africa has the audacity to allow this man to be a commissioner who questions esteemed judges on their level of competency to sit on the Bench as jurists, while he threatens death upon others.
To those who seek delight in Malema’s obstreperous conduct as seen by millions, remember the kind of character that loiters beneath that veneer.
What a sad indictment of South African leadership – or a despairing lack thereof.
The Star