Hundreds of supporters of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) gathered in red attire in the eastern city of Gqeberha (formerly East London) on Wednesday ahead of the sentencing of party leader Julius Malema over a firearm incident dating back to 2018.
The case, brought by the civil rights group AfriForum, stems from allegations that Malema fired an assault rifle into the air during an EFF rally. He was later found guilty of violating firearm laws.
Police were deployed in large numbers as EFF supporters marched to court ahead of closing arguments and sentencing, which is expected on Thursday. Prosecutors are seeking the maximum 15-year prison sentence.
Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, has denied wrongdoing and argues the case is politically motivated and aimed at silencing him due to his outspoken rhetoric.
The EFF has also criticised AfriForum, which has long opposed Malema’s use of the liberation-era chant “Kill the Boer,” a slogan the group considers incitement, while Malema’s supporters say it should be understood in its historical anti-apartheid context.
The case has drawn international attention after former U.S. President Donald Trump referenced footage of Malema during discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, renewing debate over the chant and its interpretation.
South African courts have previously ruled that the chant does not constitute hate speech and should be viewed within the country’s historical struggle against apartheid-era rule.
