South African Opposition Leader Julius Malema Found Guilty of Gun Law Violations, Faces Up to 15 Years in Prison
A South African court on Wednesday found opposition leader Julius Malema guilty of violating gun laws after firing an assault rifle at a 2018 rally. Malema, 44, the outspoken leader of the radical Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), is known for his provocative speeches that frequently fuel political tensions both in South Africa and abroad. He and his former bodyguard faced charges for discharging the firearm into the air during the EFF’s fifth anniversary celebration in Eastern Cape province. The National Prosecuting Authority said the court found Malema guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm, reckless endangerment, and other related offenses. He could face up to 15 years in prison, with pre-sentencing proceedings set for January 23 next year. Malema, who was present for the verdict, announced his intention to appeal. Speaking to supporters outside the courthouse, he remained defiant: “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 ruling follows a conviction in August for hate speech, after Malema told supporters at a 2022 rally that they should “never be scared to kill.” Malema has long drawn criticism from South Africa’s white minority for his radical rhetoric and his performance of the anti-apartheid song “Kill the Boer, kill the farmer,” which critics argue incites anti-white violence.