South African Opposition Leader Julius Malema Sentenced To Five Years For Firing Rifle

Malema was sentenced to five years for firing a rifle into the air at a party rally in 2018.

“South African opposition politician Julius Malema has been sentenced to prison time for firing a rifle in the air at a party rally”

Al Jazeera

Magistrate Olivier said it wasn't an impulsive act, it was the event of the evening.

Al Jazeera

Malema was convicted on five counts including unlawful possession of a firearm.

He was released on appeal which will be heard at a later date.

The case was brought by Afrikaner lobby group AfriForum.

Malema has been criticized for chanting Kill the Boer at rallies.

Malema addressed hundreds of his red-clad EFF supporters.

He said the conviction was a result of a conspiracy.

BBC

The EFF won under 10 percent of the vote in the 2024 elections.

The Democratic Alliance welcomed the sentencing.

Senior EFF parliamentarian called it a travesty of justice.

Malema was once the leader of the ANC youth wing.

“EFF leaderJulius Malemahas been sentenced to five years’ imprisonment”

Business Day

He went on to form the EFF, the fourth largest party at the 2024 elections.

His party's policies include expropriation of white-owned land.

The Trump administration has offered refugee status to Afrikaners.

Malema's prosecution came when AfriForum opened a case.