The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, is expected to learn his fate this week as he appears before the East London Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday and Thursday, April 15 and 16.
Malema was found guilty in October 2025 on multiple charges related to the firing of a rifle during the party’s anniversary celebrations. The case was brought before the courts following charges laid by AfriForum.
The charges on which Malema was convicted include unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, failure to take reasonable precautions for the safety of persons or property, and reckless endangerment.
The incident dates back to July 2018, when the EFF held its eighth anniversary celebrations at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, East London.
The outspoken politician was convicted on five counts, with the court rejecting his defence that the rifle used was a toy.
During a pre-sentencing hearing on January 23, 2026, Magistrate Twanet Olivier set April 15 and 16 as the dates for sentencing. Proceedings have drawn large numbers of EFF supporters from across the country.
The State is reportedly pushing for a custodial sentence, with a possible maximum of 15 years’ imprisonment. Such an outcome could have significant political consequences, including the potential loss of Malema’s seat in Parliament.
However, Malema has indicated that he intends to appeal should the sentence not be in his favour
