DEFENCE minister Mosiuoa Lekota will defend a R1,9-million civil claim brought against him by two farm workers allegedly tortured by army commando members, even though he “doesn’t have a leg to stand on.” Defence spokesman Sam Mkhwanazi said on Wednesday that Lekota was unhappy about defending the claim. “Legally speaking he has no leg to stand on,” Mkhwanazi explained. Moses Mayisela (35) and Mgezeni Hlatshwayo (40) were allegedly assaulted by the notorious part-time members of the South African National Defence Force’s Wakkerstroom commando in October 1996. Mayisela of Rooikop Farm was left permanently blind after his head was allegedly covered with a balaclava and teargas was sprayed into his face. He was allegedly handcuffed and given electric shocks and prevented from seeking medical help for two weeks after the incident. Mayisela is suing Lekota for R1,6-million. – African Eye News