More than 15,000 people are expected to attend a night vigil on Tuesday for expelled ANC Youth League president Julius Malema ahead of his corruption trial, The Sowetan reported.

Limpopo ANCYL spokesman Klaas Mabunda told the newspaper it had arranged buses to take members and Malema supporters to the night vigil.

“I can confirm that after lengthy articulations, the provincial executive committee of the ANCYL has mandated to organise transport for members and Malema’s supporters,” Mabunda said.

The buses would transport people from all 10 sub-regions of the province to the Jack Botes hall.

According to The Sowetan, Mabunda said the buses would be paid for by businesspeople and “some” ANC leaders.

The branch was also printing posters and T-shirts in support of Malema.

ANCYL deputy president Robert Lamola and provincial chairman Rudzani Ludere would address the gathering.

By Sapa