Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has been found guilty of charges stemming from a 2018 firearm discharge incident during a political rally in Mdantsane.
The East London Magistrate’s Court delivered the verdict on Wednesday morning, convicting Malema of contravening the Firearms Control Act, specifically relating to the unlawful possession and discharge of a firearm.
The case dates back to an EFF rally where Malema was captured on video allegedly firing shots into the air before a cheering crowd. The footage sparked public concern and led to a formal investigation.
Malema’s co-accused, his security officer Adriaan Snyman, was acquitted. Snyman had faced allegations of supplying the firearm used during the incident. However, Magistrate Twanet Olivier ruled that the State had not proven Snyman’s culpability beyond a reasonable doubt.
In contrast, the court found that Malema’s defence failed to effectively counter the prosecution’s evidence. Magistrate Olivier stated that the defence did not disprove the State’s case beyond a reasonable doubt.
The ruling marks a significant legal setback for the EFF leader, whose actions have often drawn both national attention and controversy.
Sentencing is expected at a later date.
