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Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s opposition Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been sentenced to five years in prison over a firearm-related offence tied to a political rally.
The judgment was delivered on Thursday, with the court finding that Malema breached firearm laws when he discharged an assault rifle during an EFF event in 2018.
Magistrate Twanet Olivier ruled that the act was intentional, noting that Malema knowingly violated regulations by firing the weapon into the air in a public setting.
Supporters of the EFF gathered outside the court in large numbers, many dressed in the party’s red colours, as the sentencing drew significant public attention.
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The case has remained in the spotlight for years, largely due to Malema’s political influence and his confrontational style in national discourse.
The ruling is expected to stir debate across South Africa’s political landscape, particularly around accountability and the conduct of public officials.
More details, including possible legal moves by Malema’s defence team, are expected to emerge in the coming days.
