South African opposition figure Julius Malema returned to court on Wednesday as prosecutors argued for a maximum 15-year prison sentence following his conviction for firing a rifle during a political rally.
Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was found guilty last year on charges including unlawful possession of a firearm and discharging a weapon in public over a 2018 incident. Despite pleading not guilty and maintaining that the firearm was a toy, the court upheld the conviction.
During proceedings at a magistrate’s court in KuGompo City, formerly East London, state prosecutors insisted that a custodial sentence was necessary, warning that leniency could set a dangerous precedent. They argued that Malema’s status as a political leader and lawmaker makes his actions particularly concerning, given his influence on young supporters.
However, Malema’s legal team urged the court to impose a lighter punishment, such as a fine, arguing that the act was merely celebratory and carried no intent to harm.
If the court ultimately imposes a prison sentence exceeding 12 months—pending appeals—Malema could lose his seat in parliament, a development that would significantly impact the EFF, one of South Africa’s most prominent opposition parties with strong backing among young voters frustrated by persistent inequality since the end of apartheid.
Addressing supporters gathered outside the courthouse, Malema vowed to challenge any sentence handed down. The court adjourned proceedings until Thursday, when sentencing deliberations are expected to continue.
