ANC slams youth leader's threat to 'take up arms' slammed

The leader of the African National Congress Youth League, Julius Malema, made the comments during a rally Monday in Thaba Nchu in central South Africa as part of Youth Day.

Zuma was present at the time and later delivered a speech, saying "we are not going to make the ANC a haven for hooligans and criminals," without referring specifically to Malema.

"Let us make it clear now: we are prepared to die for Zuma," said Malema, claiming Zuma's rights had been violated by delays in prosecuting him.

"Not only that, we are prepared to take up arms and kill for Zuma."

Zuma, a 65-year-old hopeful in the 2009 presidential election, faces 16 charges ranging from money laundering to racketeering.

The original date set for the trial is August but it could be delayed as no trial judge has so far been appointed.

Malema said that the trial would "divide the country."

"That statement was reckless," ANC secretary general Gwede Mantashe told AFP.

"It does not represent the official position of the ANC as a political party. We want the Youth League to support the party but it should not make reckless statements."

In a statement on Tuesday, the ANC criticised prosecutors' handling of the case against Zuma.

"The ANC reiterates its concern at the treatment of its president by the National Prosecuting Authority over the past eight years, and will demonstrate its support for him (Zuma) as the case against him goes to court," it said.

The statement did not detail the treatment the party says Zuma has been subjected to.

In an interview on public broadcaster SABC Tuesday afternoon, Malema denied calling on the youth to take up arms and kill if Zuma was prosecuted for corruption, admitting that he probably used the wrong word.

"The (word) 'killing' was used to demonstrate our love and passion for the ANC president and we will never compromise.... People just try to distort and sensationalise the whole issue on 'killing'," he said.

"I should have used the word that says 'the highest price'. Perhaps it was not going to be an issue.

"We are not resorting to violence. And that is why we are even approaching the court... to say that the president will never get a fair trial, and so, please drop the charges."

Malema's statement has drawn the ire of many South African politicians.

Zuma has previously said he would stand down as ANC president if convicted of the charges.

Youth Day is held to commemorate the anniversary of the Soweto uprising of young people against the apartheid regime in 1976.