Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema is appearing before the East London Magistrate’s Court on Friday for pre-sentencing proceedings following his conviction for discharging a firearm during the party’s fifth anniversary celebrations in Mdantsane in 2018.
Malema was found guilty of unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment.
The incident took place at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium, where Malema fired a gun into the air during the celebrations.
Ruling at a later stage
The court is expected to hear arguments in mitigation and aggravation of sentence before handing down a ruling at a later stage.
Malema has consistently maintained his innocence, claiming the firearm involved was a toy, and has indicated that he intends to appeal both his conviction and any sentence imposed.
Outside the courthouse, a heavy police presence has been deployed as hundreds of EFF supporters gathered to show solidarity with their leader.
Party members held overnight vigils and sang struggle songs ahead of the proceedings, describing the case as politically motivated.
‘Political attack’
EFF Secretary General Marshall Dlamini reiterated the party’s stance, saying Julius Malema would continue leading the organisation regardless of the outcome.
“This is a political attack on the EFF, and we remain confident that justice will ultimately prevail,” he said.
Lobby group AfriForum, which was involved in laying the original complaint, has argued that the seriousness of the charges could warrant a direct prison sentence, although legal analysts say the court may also consider a suspended sentence or a fine, depending on mitigating factors.
The matter has drawn national attention, with supporters and critics closely watching the outcome, which could have significant political and legal implications.
