Hundreds rally ahead of sentencing of politician Malema
- Africa News
Otaria Benjamin- 0
- 2 minutes read
Malema was found guilty on multiple charges, including unlawful possession of a firearm. / Reuters
Supporters of Julius Malema gathered in large numbers on Wednesday ahead of his expected sentencing over a firearms conviction in South Africa.
Police were deployed in the city of KuGumpo, formerly East London, as members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) marched to court during final proceedings in the case.
Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, was found guilty in October of violating firearm laws after discharging a rifle at a political rally in 2018.
Prosecutors are seeking a maximum sentence of 15 years, with sentencing expected on Thursday.
The case was brought by AfriForum, which has previously raised concerns about Malema’s rhetoric, including his use of the anti-apartheid chant “Kill the Boer.”
Malema and his party have described the case as politically motivated, arguing it is aimed at silencing opposition voices.
The case has drawn wider attention, including from Donald Trump, who referenced Malema’s speeches during discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa last year.
South African courts have previously ruled that the chant, while controversial, does not constitute hate speech when considered in its historical context.
SOURCE: AFP
