South African Opposition Leader, Julius Malema Convicted of Firearm Offences
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has been found guilty of multiple firearm-related offences after discharging an assault rifle during a political gathering in 2018.
The charges stem from the EFF’s fifth anniversary rally in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape, where Malema was captured on video firing several rounds into the air.
The incident provoked public outrage and prompted a lengthy court process.
A regional court ruled that Malema unlawfully possessed the weapon, illegally held ammunition, and endangered lives by firing the gun in a crowded setting. He was also convicted of recklessly discharging a firearm in public.
His former security aide, Adriaan Snyman, who was accused of supplying the rifle, walked free after being acquitted on all counts.
The convictions carry a maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment. Legal experts note, however, that sentencing could be less severe, depending on the court’s assessment.
Should Malema receive more than 12 months in prison, he could automatically lose his parliamentary seat. That outcome would represent a seismic shift for South Africa’s political opposition.
Sentencing has been scheduled for January 23, 2026, a date that will now loom large over the nation’s political calendar.
Malema has already signalled that he will fight the ruling. He described the verdict as part of a broader struggle, insisting that prison or death would be “a badge of honour” in pursuit of revolutionary goals.
The outspoken politician has long been one of the country’s most polarizing figures. He has called for radical land reform without compensation and demanded the nationalization of key industries.
His rhetoric has often placed him at odds with South Africa’s white minority and drawn international scrutiny. Even former U.S. President Donald Trump publicly referenced Malema’s calls for land seizures.
This is not his first brush with the law. In August, Malema was found guilty of hate speech after urging supporters “never to be scared to kill.” He has also faced backlash for singing the liberation-era song *“Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer,”* which critics interpret as incitement to violence.
The guilty verdict now raises questions about Malema’s political future and the direction of the EFF, which has positioned itself as the loudest voice of radical change in South Africa’s democracy.
