Archive · 23 Jan 2026
Malema awaits sentence in South African firearm case
Julius Malema, a famous politician in South Africa, is waiting to hear his punishment for a case about firing a gun in public.
This happened in 2018, and he was found guilty in October 2023.
He could go to prison for up to 15 years, but the judge might decide on a lighter punishment.
Many of his supporters gathered outside the court to show their support.
Malema's party, the EFF, wants big changes in South Africa, like taking land from white farmers and giving it to others.
Some people are worried these changes might hurt the economy.
Julius Malema, leader of the EFF, awaits sentencing for firing a rifle at a 2018 rally.
Convicted in October 2023 of unlawful firearm possession, public discharge, and reckless endangerment.
Faces up to 15 years in prison, but sentence could be more lenient.
Thousands of EFF supporters gathered outside the court in a show of solidarity.
EFF is the fourth-largest party in South Africa's parliament, advocating for radical economic and land reforms.
- Who
- Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party in South Africa
- What
- Awaiting sentencing for charges related to firing a rifle in public in 2018
- When
- Pre-sentencing hearing on January 23, 2024
- Where
- East London Magistrate’s Court, South Africa
- Why
- Malema was convicted of unlawful possession of a firearm, discharging a weapon in public, and reckless endangerment
- Defendant
- Julius Malema
- Charges
- Unlawful possession, discharging firearm, reckless endangerment
- Conviction Date
- October 2023
- Incident Date
- 2018
- Possible Sentence
- Up to 15 years in prison
- Party
- Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)
- Supporters' Message
- We stand with Julius Malema
- EFF's Parliamentary Representation
- 10% of seats in lower house