'It was a desperate act of defence', says Malema as he apologises to Ramaphosa
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has issued an apology to President Cyril Ramaphosa over his claims that he had abused his late former wife.
In a statement issued on Thursday evening, Malema extended his hand to Ramaphosa following his apology.
Earlier in the day Ramaphosa apologised to the nation and Malema’s wife Mantoa after African National Congress (ANC) MP Boy Mamabolo accused Malema of gender-based-violence.
Malema also accused Ramaphosa of the assault of his late former wife, Nomazizi.
"I hope the president can accept my apology, together with his family, which I offer sincerely. I also hope that such a degeneration never occurs again where ANC MPs use personal matters, masquerading in false and malicious accusations to score political points,” says Malema.
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Malema says it was a “desperate act of personal defense which I now regret”.
He has also apologised to the nation “in particular victims of gender-based violence”.
Mamabolo is said to face a defemation lawsuit after he refused to apologise and retract the statement he made during the State of the Nation Address last week.