A clothing range inspired by suspended ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema is expected to launch in Johannesburg in February next year, according to a report on Wednesday.

It will be made in China.

Pretoria fashion designer Obakeng Ramabodu, of OB Fitted’s Juju clothing range, said they had initially planned to launch in Mangaung during the ANC’s centenary celebrations, the Sowetan reported.

However, Ramabodu decided to unveil the range in Johannesburg in February instead because he did not want to disrespect the ANC.

“On Facebook, I have more than 850 orders of berets and T-shirts,” he said speaking from China.

“In two weeks I am coming with more than 6,000 T-shirts, caps and berets featuring the Juju logo.”

He said the project was self-sponsored because no one wanted to support him.

“It is about celebrating my hero. I do not know why, when a white person does the 46664 apparel he is not criticised, but when a young black designer from Mabopane does a Juju range people throw a fit.”

Ramabodu said he could not find a local company to make high-quality bling.

“South Africa does not have the machinery to produce high-quality clothes like China, where you get the whole package…”

Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi said Ramabodu was exploiting Malema’s name to make a quick buck, the newspaper reported.

Malema said he did not need his blessing.

“He doesn’t need my blessings. Like Black Coffee when he released the song ‘I love you Juju’, he didn’t get my blessing because Juju is not my name,” Malema told the Sowetan.

By Sapa