African youth leader's suspension stands

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Feb. 4 (UPI) -- Julius Malema, suspended leader of the African National Congress Youth League, lost his appeal Saturday, upholding his five-year suspension, officials say.

Malema was suspended in November after encouraging derision within the party by comparing South African President Jacob Zuma to former President Thabo Mbeki. He also called for regime change in Botswana. Both violate the ANC constitution, News24 reports.

Malema was suspended along with four other youth leaders, Voice of America reports.

Malema will return to court in 14 days to appeal the length of his suspension, the BBC reports.