JOHANNESBURG, January 26, 2012 (AFP) - A South African designer Thursday launched a fashion range inspired by the ruling party's motormouth youth leader Julius Malema.

The range of T-shirts and vests, emblazoned with a brightly coloured mouth, is the brainchild of Pretoria-based designer Obakeng Ramabodu.

Ramabodu said he was inspired by Malema's ability to capture the nation's attention every time he opens his mouth.

"I have not met someone, who, when he speaks, 80 percent of people listen," he told the Sapa news agency.

Despite their South African flavour, the clothes are made in China, where manufacturing costs are lower, he said.

Malema, popularly known as Juju, is currently fighting a five-year suspension from the ruling African National Congress (ANC), after he was found guilty of bringing the party into disrepute with his fiery rhetoric.

The merchandise would be available from independent retailers but Ramabodu said he hopes chain stores will pick them up.