HARARE - Julius Malema failed to charm the Zimbabwean media this weekend when his bouncers allegedly attacked two Daily News reporters who tried to interview him at a plush restaurant in the capital, Harare.

Expelled ANC Youth League president Malema and his spokesperson, Floyd Shivambu, were in Zimbabwe for a high-profile Zanu-PF wedding and to meet Zanu PF party officials.

Malema's three bouncers allegedly manhandled photographer Bethule Nkiwane and threatened to "break" him for taking pictures of Malema.

Reporter Tendai Kamhungira was apparently also caught up in the melee.

The two complained to the Zimbabwe police.

It is understood that the reporters wanted to ask Malema about the money-laundering charges he is facing and his links to Zanu PF.

In order to enter Zimbabwe, Malema would have had to get clearance from the South African police because he is out on R10 000 bail on the money-laundering charges.

Daily News Editor Stanley Gama told reporters that Malema had agreed to an interview but, after introductions had been made in the presence of Zanu PF officials, the bouncers became aggressive.

"He appeared interested in talking to my colleagues. But after that his goons pushed him aside and told our reporters to go to hell."

Malema left the venue in a convoy of three Range Rovers led by the brother of Zimbabwe's minister of youth development.