The verdict was handed down this Thursday, April 16, in KuGompo: Julius Malema , leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was sentenced to five years in prison for illegal possession of a firearm. This divisive figure of the South African radical left thus sees an eight-year-old case culminate in a harsh sentence.

The facts: a celebratory gunshot in 2018

The case dates back to the EFF's fifth anniversary celebrations in 2018. Julius Malema was accused of using an assault rifle by firing into the air during the rally.

Although the prosecution initially sought a 15-year sentence, Judge Twanet Olivier opted for a more moderate but firm sanction:

1. 5 years in prison for illegal possession of a weapon.
2. 2 years in prison (served simultaneously) for illegal possession of ammunition.
3. Various fines for minor charges.

"After careful consideration [...], I sentence you to five years in prison," said Judge Olivier, emphasizing the seriousness of the firearms law violation.

A controversial conviction: Malema cries racism

True to his reputation as a provocative orator, Julius Malema was quick to respond. Addressing his supporters as soon as he left the courthouse, he denounced a decision he considers political and discriminatory :

1. Accusations of bias: He called the magistrate a "notorious racist".
2. Challenges: According to him, the law was not applied and the judgment reflects persistent racial tensions.

Immediate consequences

Despite the sentence, Malema's political future is not yet in doubt:

1. Appeal: The court granted him the right to appeal the sentence (the length of the sentence), although the guilt was confirmed.
2. Provisional release: Pending the outcome of this procedure, he remains free.
3. Parliamentary mandate: He currently retains his seat as a member of the South African Parliament.

For its part, the prosecution welcomed the verdict, seeing it as a strong deterrent against the proliferation of illegal weapons in the country.