KuGompo City (Formerly East London) – The East London Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema to five years in prison for breaches of the Firearms Control Act.
Last year, on 1 October 2025, Malema was convicted on five counts, including discharging a firearm in a public space, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and reckless endangerment.
Today, Thursday, 16 April 2026, Magistrate Twanet Olivier handed down the sentence.
Breaking down the sentencing for the offences, Magistrate Olivier stated the following:
- Count 1 – 5 years imprisonment
- Count 2 – 2 years imprisonment.
- Count 3 – R20 000 fine or six months imprisonment
- Count 4 – R20 000 fine or six months imprisonment
- Count 5 – R20 000 fine or six months imprisonment
She said all sentences will run concurrently.
Soon after pronouncing the sentence, defence lawyers initiated the appeal process and requested an extension of Malema’s release on warning.
The prosecution argued against granting the request to appeal the conviction and sentence.
However, Magistrate Olivier allowed the request to appeal the sentence, while declining to do so regarding the conviction.
Malema was freed on warning until the appeal.
