The Economic Freedom Fighters has warned of potential unrest in South Africa if its leader Julius Malema is sentenced to prison, as his sentencing hearing begins over firearm-related offences.
Malema is appearing in court in East London, where proceedings are expected to run over two days. He was found guilty in October last year of discharging a firearm in public during an EFF rally in Mdantsane in 2018.
The charges include unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, reckless endangerment and firing a weapon in a public space.
Prosecutors are seeking a custodial sentence of up to 15 years, or a reduced term with part of the sentence suspended alongside fines.
EFF Youth Command leader Mahlatse Dlamini warned that jailing Malema could trigger widespread disruption.
“If the commander-in-chief is jailed, we will render the country ungovernable,” he said, adding that the party would continue its political struggle regardless of the court’s decision.
EFF spokesperson Sinawo Thambo said the party is prepared to challenge any custodial sentence, indicating it would immediately file an appeal.
The case stems from charges brought by AfriForum under the Firearms Control Act.
Political analyst André Duvenhage suggested that Malema may pursue legal avenues to delay or challenge any adverse ruling, including appeals and procedural challenges.
The outcome of the case is expected to have significant political implications, particularly as tensions remain high in South Africa’s evolving political landscape.
