Addressing his supporters outside court in Polokwane on Monday last week, Julius Malema warned EFF members to keep their zips closed so that the party is not dragged into a rape case. But two senior EFF figures have already been there: a regional co-ordinator and a spokesperson were expelled from a previous organisation after being accused of involvement in the rape of a sex worker – charges they deny. The EFF, which repeatedly states its commitment to the liberation of women, now says it will look into the matter. By REBECCA DAVIS.