South African politician Julius Malema sentenced to prison for discharging firearm

South African Opposition Leader Sentenced to Five Years in Prison

A magistrate in KuGompo City, formerly East London, has handed down a five-year prison sentence to Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), for firing a rifle into the air at a party rally in 2018. The conviction stems from charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and discharging a weapon in a public place.

Malema, who is one of South Africa’s most prominent politicians, was found guilty last year. He had pleaded not guilty, claiming the gun was a toy. During the sentencing hearing, Magistrate Twanet Olivier stated that Malema’s actions were not an impulsive act, but rather part of the evening’s events.

Malema’s defense team has applied for leave to appeal the magistrate’s decision within minutes of it being read out in court. Hundreds of EFF supporters gathered outside the courthouse, clad in red, as Malema was sentenced. The party has stated that the case is an attempt to silence its outspoken leader, who is known for his fiery speeches.

The maximum sentence for this offense was 15 years. If confirmed after all appeals, the five-year sentence would prevent Malema from serving as a lawmaker. This outcome could have significant implications for the EFF, which has strong support among young South Africans who are frustrated with ongoing racial inequality since the end of white minority rule in 1994.

Source: Al Jazeera