ANC backlash against Zuma for tackling Malema

By MATUMA LETSOALO AND MMANALEDI MATABOGE

Members of the ANC's top leadership, who backed ANC Youth League president Julius Malema in the ANC's top leadership are planning to take President Jacob Zuma to task over his public scolding of the youth leader.

The Mail & Guardian has learned that at Monday’s national working committee meeting, Malema’s supporters will tell Zuma that he was wrong to criticise Malema in public. It is understood that the committee members who are unhappy with Zuma's public reprimand include Deputy Police Minister Fikile Mbalula and ANC national treasurer Mathews Phosa.

Others expected to support them include Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane, Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda and NEC member Tony Yengeni.

Some of Malema's backers argue that Zuma's criticism was coloured by Cosatu's claim that some leaders ­-- implying the Malema-Mbalula axis -- are planning to topple Zuma at the ANC's 2012 conference.>>>>

Source: Mail & Guardian online - 2010.04.16