EFF leader Julius Malema campaigns in Koppies, South Africa, singing “Kill the Boer” days after Trump criticized him.Per-Anders Pettersson/Getty Images
Malema guilty under Firearms Control Act
The court found Malema guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, discharging a firearm in public, and reckless endangerment.
He fired a rifle into the air during the Economic Freedom Fighters’ fifth anniversary celebrations in Eastern Cape province in 2018.
The opposition leader had pleaded not guilty, arguing that the weapon was a toy gun.
Constitutional implications for opposition leader
South Africa’s constitution states that members of parliament cannot continue serving if sentenced to more than one year in prison.
Malema has served in parliament for more than a decade as leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), South Africa’s second-largest opposition party.
The conviction raises uncertainty about his political career and the parliamentary seat he has held since 2014.
Reaction from Malema’s party
The EFF described the ruling as politically motivated.
“This proves that this was a witch hunt to target the president of the EFF and find him guilty no matter how irrational it may be,” the party said in a statement.
The court acquitted Malema’s bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman, who had been accused of providing him with the firearm.
Sentencing report scheduled
The magistrate ordered a pre-sentencing report, to be released on January 23.
The ruling could impact Malema’s eligibility to hold office, depending on the final sentencing decision.
Background on Malema and controversies
Malema, known for his fiery speeches, has long been a controversial figure in South African politics.
His refusal to stop singing the apartheid-era struggle song “Kill the Boer” has been condemned by opponents who say it incites violence against white farmers.
The EFF leader’s critics, including members of the ruling African National Congress and business leaders, argue that his rhetoric undermines national stability.
International attention on Malema
U.S. President Donald Trump called for his arrest during a White House meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2025.
Malema has continued to insist that his political campaign represents the poor and landless majority in South Africa.
The party has vowed to continue supporting Malema as its leader while pursuing legal avenues.
The EFF announced plans to appeal the judgment, citing violations of his constitutional rights.
Reporting by Siyanda Mthethwa; additional reporting by Sfundo Parakozov in Johannesburg. Edited for Epicstorian News.
