The South African leader of the radical left party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema, has been sentenced to five years in prison, Thursday, April 16, for illegal possession of a firearm. A controversial opposition figure, Malema is known for his fiery rhetoric and his advocacy for wealth redistribution and the nationalization of resources. He appeared before a lower court in the city of KuGompo in connection with a case dating back eight years.
The incident dates to 2018, during celebrations marking the fifth anniversary of the EFF. Malema is accused of firing an assault rifle into the air as part of the festivities. While the court did not follow the prosecution’s request for a 15-year sentence, Judge Twanet Olivier still handed down a significant penalty for illegal firearm possession. “After careful consideration — and I want to assure you that I gave this matter the utmost attention — I sentence you, on the first count, to five years in prison,” she stated.
Malema Denounces a “Racist” Ruling
Malema was also sentenced to two years in prison — to be served concurrently — for illegal possession of ammunition, along with additional penalties that may be converted into fines.
He has been granted leave to appeal the sentence, though not the conviction itself for violating firearm laws. In the meantime, he remains free and is allowed to retain his seat in Parliament.
Speaking to supporters outside the courtroom, Malema accused the judge of political bias: “This had nothing to do with the law. It was racism expressing itself. Judge Olivier is a known racist, and she knows it very well.”
For its part, South Africa’s prosecution authority welcomed the ruling, saying it could serve as a deterrent against illegal firearm possession.
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