Gospel according to Julius

Julius Malema , the ANC Youth League president, went to church yesterday and delivered his political gospel - telling congregants not to be fooled by politicians who want their votes without delivery.

Speaking at the Setshabelong Bible Church, in Daveyton, in Benoni, on the East Rand, Malema said residents should choose a leader in next year's local government elections who would look after their interests.

He called on politicians to know their scriptures, and to respect those who voted them into power.

"The ANC Youth League reminds those in power that we are guided by the Freedom Charter, not by the will of individuals.

"People [local officials] here were looking down at the poor community who elected them.

"They were undermining the community, they were not attending community meetings, they were not attending community functions, they were not attending weddings, they never visited this church, yet they are councillors here. They should know that their chapter is closed.

"They will never be taken back to lead our people. We must elect people who respect themselves. We must elect people who respect their families because, before you can respect your community, you must be able to respect your partner, your family. Only then do you have potential to respect the people."

Malema, well-known for not mincing his words, threw a jab at power-hungry politicians planning to lobby for positions that would bring them government perks as the country gears up for the local elections.

He said struggle heroes such as former President Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and Oliver Tambo did not fight only for political power but for economic freedom for the people.

"We did not fight for politicians to enrich themselves, their families and those close to them.

"When we fought for political freedom, we did not fight for people to be ministers. We did not fight for people to have blue lights, we did not fight for people to push us off the roads.

"We fought for our people to own what belongs to them - land and mines," he said.

Bishop Pule Magethi said he liked Malema and his "arrogance", saying he was what South Africa needed.

"Young people should conduct themselves in a way that will safeguard their future. What you do today is what you become tomorrow," he said.