A South African court on Wednesday found opposition leader Julius Malema guilty of breaching gun laws after firing an assault rifle at a 2018 rally
Malema, 44, the fiery leader of the radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party, is known for provocative speeches that often stir political tensions both domestically and internationally.
He and his former bodyguard were charged for discharging the weapon into the air during the EFF’s fifth anniversary celebration in Eastern Cape province. The court ruled that Malema was guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm, reckless endangerment, and other related offenses, the National Prosecuting Authority said.
He faces a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years. Pre-sentencing proceedings are scheduled for January 23 next year. Malema, who attended the verdict, said he plans to appeal the ruling.
Addressing supporters outside the court, he struck a defiant tone: “As a revolutionary, going to prison or death is a badge of honour. We cannot be scared of prison or dying for the revolution.”
This conviction comes months after Malema was found guilty of hate speech in August for telling supporters at a 2022 rally that they should “never be scared to kill.”
Malema has faced long-standing criticism from South Africa’s white minority for his radical rhetoric and for singing the anti-apartheid song “Kill the Boer, kill the farmer,” which critics claim incites anti-white violence.
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As a revolutionary, going to prison or death is a badge of honour. We cannot be scared of prison or dying for the revolution.”
Another Mandela 👏🏻