EFF slams Malema sentence as attempt to 'silence revolutionary voice'
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has described the sentencing of party leader Julius Malema in a firearm-related case as politically motivated.
Malema was sentenced to an effective five years behind bars on Thursday by the East London Magistrate’s Court in the Eastern Cape.
This followed last year's conviction related to a 2018 firearm discharge incident at the party’s anniversary rally in Mdantsane.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the party described the case as politically motivated, claiming it was aimed at silencing Malema as a 'revolutionary political voice.'
"The EFF reiterates that this case has always been pursued in a highly politicised environment, with clear intentions to criminalise a revolutionary political voice that represents the aspirations of the oppressed and marginalised," the party said.
The EFF also criticised the custodial sentence imposed on Malema, calling it disproportionate and inconsistent with the facts of the case.
"The EFF further notes the imposition of a custodial sentence, which we view as disproportionate and inconsistent with both the facts and the broader context of the incident," the statement read.
The party took aim at the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), accusing it of prioritising Malema’s prosecution while failing to secure convictions in serious violent crimes.
"This is the same prosecuting authority that routinely fails to secure convictions in cases of violent crime… yet, in a case where no one was injured, the NPA mobilised its full capacity to ensure that President Malema is incarcerated," the EFF said.
During sentencing proceedings, Malema’s defence, led by advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, argued that the firearm discharge occurred in a celebratory context and was not intended to cause harm.
"The discharge of the firearm occurred in a celebratory context during a political gathering, and not as an act of violence or criminal recklessness," the party said, adding that no injuries or damage were reported.
The EFF further argued that a custodial sentence would not serve the interests of justice, warning it could be seen as an attempt to suppress political dissent.
"A custodial sentence would serve no legitimate purpose of justice, deterrence, or rehabilitation, but would instead amount to the suppression of political dissent," the statement said.
The party also raised concerns about alleged procedural irregularities, including claims that a co-accused had a firearm returned before judgment was delivered—an issue it says raises questions about the State’s handling of the case.
Linking the case to broader political dynamics, the EFF accused lobby group AfriForum of pursuing litigation aimed at undermining Malema, and pointed to international commentary, including remarks by Donald Trump, as part of what it described as coordinated pressure against 'revolutionary leadership.'
The party drew parallels with historical figures such as Patrice Lumumba, Thomas Sankara, and Steve Biko, arguing that Malema’s prosecution fits a pattern of targeting leaders who challenge existing power structures.
The EFF confirmed that Malema will appeal the sentence, urging supporters to remain calm while legal processes unfold.
"The EFF stands proudly with President Malema as he continues to appeal this sentence until he clears his name," the party said.
Magistrate Twanet Olivier granted Malema leave to appeal his sentence and not his conviction.
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