Malema believes VBS allegations being used in a bid to silence him and the EFF

CAPE TOWN - Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema believes there are concerted efforts to silence him and his political party using the VBS Mutual Bank looting scandal.

Malema has finally spoken out following the re-emergence of allegations by the bank’s former chairperson, Tshifhiwa Matodzi.

Matodzi alleges that the EFF received a lump of R5 million and monthly payments of R1 million from the now-defunct bank.

ALSO READ:

• EFF never received money from Sgameka Projects - Dali Mpofu

• Presidency says everyone involved in VBS looting must be held accountable

• Ex-Treasury DG Mogajane denies receiving bribes from VBS

• NPA 'considering legal options' after affidavit related to VBS case leaked

Speaking during a media briefing ahead of the Opening of Parliament Address on Thursday, Malema has maintained his innocence, reiterating that his party was never involved in bringing the bank to its knees.

Malema said that he was more than prepared to defend himself against allegations suggesting he was involved in the looting of the VBS Bank.

He said there was no tangible evidence to support the allegations or build a strong case against him and his deputy.

"We are not here for the first time. We have been tested before with unfounded allegations, which their aim was to achieve a political end. The abuse of state resources has never intimidated us. There is no one who can raise VBS and silence me."

Allegations of Malema and his deputy Floyd Shivambu’s involvement in the VBS looting first surfaced in 2018.

The pair, however, continue to suggest they are being targeted, pouring cold water on the allegations.