NSPCA slams decision not to prosecute Malema
The National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) has expressed deep disappointment following the NPA's decision not to prosecute EFF leader Julius Malema for animal cruelty.
A TimesLIVE report notes that the case centred on a 2023 incident in which Malema was filmed attempting to slaughter a cow.
The NSPCA argued the incident violated the Animals Protection Act and caused unnecessary suffering.
In September 2023, the NSPCA opened a formal case, submitting video evidence, affidavits, and identifying a key eyewitness who had recorded additional footage.
However, the NPA has now declined to pursue prosecution, citing insufficient evidence to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.
Concerns over the ‘authenticity’ of the video footage were also raised.
The NSPCA stated it had escalated the matter and believed the evidence warranted judicial scrutiny.
While acknowledging the independence of the prosecutorial process, the organisation expressed dismay, warning that many South Africans who value animal welfare would be disappointed by the outcome.
The NSPCA further highlighted the case as part of a broader systemic issue – the difficulty in securing legal protection and visibility for animals within the justice system.
‘The law must be applied consistently,’ it said.
The decision not to prosecute Malema has reignited debate about the humane treatment of animals and the legal obligations of public figures, particularly in high-profile cases that draw national attention.
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
