Malema pays tribute to dead supporterComment on this story
While waiting at the Palace of Justice to hear the outcome of their case against the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), an Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) supporter slipped in the rain, fell heavily and died.
Party spokesman Mbuyiseni Ndlozi said the man, only known as “Max”, tripped over a park bench in Church Square while running.
“Apparently he fell and hit his head very hard. Moments later he died,” Ndlozi said.
Media who wanted to get a picture of the scene were barred and pushed away by EFF members.
One member shouted into the crowd that “we do not want bloody agents” at the scene.
Tshwane emergency services spokesman Johan Pieterse confirmed that the man was declared dead on the scene. The body lay a few hours on the square, covered in foil, before it was removed.
Members started singing and chanting on the steps of the court awaiting their leader Julius Malema to address them.
Ndlozi said Max’s family and the party leadership - the members of which were in court - had been notified about the death.
Emerging from the court after judgment was reserved in the case, Malema paid tribute to the dead man. He praised him for being at the high court to fight for the restoration of dignity among the poor.
“He will not rest in peace if we don’t continue with this fight,” Malema said.
“We are proud of that fighter. We will not disappoint nor betray him and will carry on the fight for the dignity of the poor. If we fail to do that, he will not sleep peacefully.” - Pretoria News