Malema Faces the Bench: Firearm Conviction Puts EFF Leader’s Future on the Line

EFF leader Julius Malema returns to the KuGompo City Magistrates Court for sentencing after his firearm conviction. Final arguments heard today, sentence expected Thursday. KuGompo City | 15 April 2026.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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Johannesburg —The KuGompo City Magistrates Court fell silent on Wednesday as Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema returned for the final chapter of a case that has shadowed him for years.

Sentencing proceedings began for his conviction of contravening South Africa’s firearm laws — a verdict that could reshape both his political trajectory and the tone of public protest in the country.

The case dates back to 2018, to a packed EFF rally in Mdantsane. Video footage from that day shows Malema firing shots into the air with what appeared to be a rifle, while thousands of supporters cheered.

Prosecutors argued the act was reckless, unlawful, and set a dangerous precedent. The state described Malema’s actions in court as “barbaric,” saying they endangered the public and undermined the rule of law.

Malema has never denied the footage. Instead, his defense hinged on one point: the firearm was fake. Throughout the trial, he maintained that no live ammunition was used and that the object was a prop for theatrical effect during a celebratory moment.

The court rejected that argument in its judgment. It ruled that, real or replica, discharging shots in front of a crowd of thousands was prohibited under the Firearms Control Act. The mere act of firing into the air, the court said, created risk and fear.

Wednesday’s appearance was set down for final heads of argument in pre-sentencing. The magistrate is expected to hand down the sentence on Thursday.

Legal analysts say the options range from a fine and suspended sentence to direct imprisonment. Malema’s legal team has already told the court that a custodial sentence would be “grossly unfair” and disproportionate, arguing that no one was injured and that the incident was political theatre, not criminal intent.

They also pushed back against public claims that “a fine equals buying freedom,” insisting that punishment must fit the context.

Outside court, the EFF turned the moment into a show of force. The party booked Jan Smuts Stadium, where supporters gathered to watch proceedings on a jumbo screen.

A night vigil was held on Tuesday, with chants, songs, and red berets filling KuGompo City. Images from the scene showed rows of supporters in red, holding placards that read “Hands off Juju” and “Celebration is not a crime.”