EFF leader Julius Malema with his bodyguard Adriaan Snyman in the dock at the East London Magistrates Court on Wednesday Photo by AfriForum
By Jacques Broodryk
Chief Spokesperson: Community Safety AfriForum
The sentencing of Julius Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), is expected to commence on 23 January 2026 following his conviction in the East London Magistrate’s Court on multiple charges in terms of the Firearms Control Act.
AfriForum laid criminal charges against Malema in August 2018, after he fired several shots during the EFF’s fifth birthday celebration on 28 July 2018 at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium outside East London.
Malema was found guilty on five charges, including the discharging of a firearm in a built-up or public area without sufficient reason, unlawful possession of a firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
According to Jacques Broodryk, AfriForum’s Chief Spokesperson for Community Safety, the verdict confirms that accountability cannot be evaded indefinitely.
“The evidence overwhelmingly proved that Malema committed several serious offences under the Firearms Control Act.
The verdict confirmed that those who believe they are untouchable will eventually be held accountable, however long that might take.
The sentence must now reflect the seriousness of the crime, regardless of the person’s political status,” says Broodryk.
AfriForum played a decisive role in ensuring that this matter was brought before the court.
Without the organisation’s intervention and continued pressure, the case may never have proceeded to trial in the first place.
The case represents a significant victory in AfriForum’s continued efforts to uphold the rule of law and ensure equal accountability for all.
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