EFF leader Julius Malema sentencing—follow-up to: Malema sentencing: court signals tough stance
Magistrate Twanet Olivier sentenced EFF leader Julius Malema to direct imprisonment in the KuGompo Magistrates Court on Thursday, delivering a crushing blow that could reshape South Africa’s political landscape.
The court imposed the following sentences:
· Count 1 (unlawful possession of a firearm): 5 years direct imprisonment
· Count 2 (unlawful possession of ammunition): 2 years direct imprisonment
· Count 3 (discharging a firearm in a built-up area): a fine
· Count 4 (failure to take reasonable precautions): a fine
· Count 5 (reckless endangerment): a fine of R20,000 or 6 months imprisonment
In terms of the Criminal Procedure Act, Olivier ordered that the sentences on the custodial counts run concurrently. The court also declared Malema unfit to carry a firearm.
Immediate legal challenge
Moments after Olivier pronounced the sentence, counsel for Malema rose to proceed with leave to appeal and filed an urgent bail application. The legal team argues that the conviction rests on flawed grounds and that Malema should remain free pending the appeal process.
What this means for Parliament
The sentence places Malema’s position in Parliament in immediate jeopardy, as a custodial term exceeding 12 months without a fine triggers automatic forfeiture of his seat.
Scene inside the courtroom
Mantwa Matlala, Malema’s wife, sat in the front row as Olivier delivered the sentence. The EFF leader stood composed as the magistrate read out each count, his legal team already preparing the bail papers before the court rose.
More to follow
This is a developing story. NOWinSA will update as the bail hearing and leave to appeal proceedings unfold.
