South Africa’s Julius Malema sentenced to 5 years in jail for gun related charges

The ruling was delivered on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the regional court in KuGompo City (also known as Komani or East London) in the Eastern Cape. The case stems from an incident on July 28, 2018, during the EFF’s fifth anniversary celebrations at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, where Malema was filmed firing an assault rifle into the air in front of supporters.

Malema was convicted last year on multiple counts under the Firearms Control Act. These included unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as discharging a weapon in a public place in a way that endangered people. Prosecutors had asked the court for a tough sentence, pushing for up to 15 years of direct imprisonment or at least 10 years with some portion suspended. The final sentence of five years is seen as significant because a custodial term without the option of a fine could affect Malema’s position as a member of the National Assembly.

The case has drawn wide attention across South Africa. Malema and the EFF have described the prosecution as a political attack aimed at weakening the party. After the conviction, Malema remained defiant, saying he would appeal the matter all the way to the highest court in the land if necessary. His supporters gathered outside the court during the proceedings, showing strong loyalty to their leader.

This development adds pressure on one of South Africa’s most vocal and controversial politicians. Malema has built a large following with his strong views on land reform, economic inequality, and criticism of the ruling African National Congress. While the sentence is being processed, questions remain about whether he will serve time immediately or if his legal team will successfully delay or overturn it through appeals. Many South Africans are watching closely to see how this outcome might influence the country’s political landscape in the coming months.