WE have to wonder what Kader Asmal thinks about President Jacob Zuma's assertion that ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema is worthy of being a future ANC president.

Asmal said last week that he wished not to live to see Malema's predecessor and now Deputy Minister of Police Fikile Mbalula live to be the ANC's general secretary.

There is no denying that Mbalula was a fiery young man during his time at the helm of the youth organisation. But compared with Malema he comes across as an altar boy in terms of using harsh and uncouth language against anyone, including own comrades.

The young man is as charismatic as he is quick to the sound-bite draw. But we should not kid ourselves. Malema has a lot to do before he can be said to be deserving of leading a party with as proud a tradition as the ANC.