Kugompo city: The leader of South Africa's opposition party, Julius Malema, has been sentenced to five years in prison without parole for violating the Firearms Act. The 45-year-old head of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party will begin serving his sentence immediately, as announced by Judge Twanet Olivier at the Magistrates' Court in KuGompo City, formerly East London. Malema's lawyer has indicated plans to appeal the ruling.
According to Ghana News Agency, in 2018, Malema fired several live rounds into the air during a party celebration, despite not holding a firearms licence for the semi-automatic rifle he used. The court found Malema guilty in October, and the sentencing had been pending until now. The judge stated that Malema's actions were deliberate and not due to impulsiveness or anger, as he had put those present in danger. The defence had described the shots as 'salutes.'
Julius Malema's political journey began early when he joined the ruling African National Congress (ANC) at the age of nine during the party's fight against apartheid. Following Nelson Mandela's presidency in 1994, Malema quickly advanced within the ANC ranks until his expulsion in 2012. By 2013, Malema established the EFF, a radical, left-wing, anti-capitalist party.
Over the years, Malema has faced numerous allegations, including money laundering, fraud, corruption, embezzlement of party funds, and hate speech. His opulent lifestyle has also sparked criticism, given the contrast with his political rhetoric.