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I have taken note of comments made by the ruling party in a statement to the
SABC, following my remarks during Freedom Day celebrations in Vryheid, that
it is my responsibility as one of South Africa's senior politicians to
engage the ANC on Mr Julius Malema.

While I take seriously my role as senior serving elder and the
responsibilities that come with this position, suggestions that I should
intervene in the internal matters of the ANC is inappropriate and out of
place in this national debate on Mr Malema's conduct.

The facts are however, that I have on numerous occasions - through media
statements, online newsletters and public statements - expressed my
displeasure and dismay with the utterances and behaviour of the ANC's Youth
League President. In addition, I even wrote to President Zuma to seek his
advice on this matter but to date I have not had the privilege of a
response.

In the end, I contend, it is only President Zuma that can take Mr Malema to
task and make him realise the error of his ways. We, as opposition leaders,
can voice our concerns but it will be of no consequence unless the ruling
party acts on these concerns.

I reiterate my views, as expressed on Freedom Day, that the publicity Mr
Julius Malema attracts is not good publicity. It may keep the ANC in the
spotlight, but it does nothing to benefit the image of our country or
national unity.

Furthermore, the ANC's failure to rein-in Mr Malema points to a serious lack
of leadership within the ruling party, which does not inspire hope or
security in the future of South Africa and its young democracy.