EFF chief Julius Malema convicted on five firearm offenses in East London

When Julius Malema, President of Economic Freedom Fighters was found guilty of five counts of firearm misconduct by the East London Magistrate's Court on 1 October 2025, the verdict marked the end of a seven‑year legal saga that began at a crowded rally in Mdantsane.

Background of the 2018 Mdantsane Incident

The episode that set the stage unfolded on 13 October 2018 during the EFF's fifth‑anniversary celebrations at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in the township of Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. Video footage captured Malema allegedly brandishing and discharging a firearm in full view of thousands of supporters. The muzzle flash, heard across the stands, sparked immediate concern from law‑enforcement officials and anti‑violence groups.

Shortly after, Malema’s former bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman, was arrested on separate charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition linked to the same event. Both men denied any wrongdoing, insisting the weapons were part of a staged security demonstration that went awry.

Court Proceedings and Verdict

Legal proceedings dragged on for years, with the case being postponed multiple times due to procedural challenges and requests for additional forensic analysis. The most recent postponement occurred on 30 September 2025, when the court cited the need to examine a missing cartridge labelled SPA24914.

When the trial finally resumed, the prosecution presented extensive ballistic testing, including expert testimony that the discharged rounds matched a rifle registered to a tactical security firm overseen by a Mr Mdouli – who, according to court records, was hospitalized during the relevant period.

Despite the prosecution’s detailed evidence, the defence argued that the case was a political smear campaign designed to tarnish the EFF’s image. Malema repeatedly claimed, “This is a political witch‑hunt aimed at silencing dissent.”

In its final judgment, the magistrate concluded that Malema had indeed discharged a firearm in a public space, satisfying the elements of five distinct offenses under the Firearms Control Act. The court noted that Malema has no prior convictions, a factor that may influence the upcoming sentencing phase.

Reactions from the EFF and the NPA

The National Prosecuting Authority welcomed the decision, stating, “The judgment is based on the evidence presented in open court and demonstrates that the law applies equally, regardless of political stature.” The NPA spokesperson added that while the prosecution had sought accessory‑after‑the‑fact charges, the court declined to grant them.

In contrast, the EFF’s spokesperson condemned the ruling as “judicial overreach.” He argued that the conviction could set a dangerous precedent for politically motivated prosecutions, especially given the ambiguous nature of the evidence surrounding the missing cartridge.

Legal Implications and Potential Sentencing

South African law stipulates a maximum of 10 years imprisonment for discharging a firearm in a public place, with the exact term depending on aggravating factors such as intent and risk to public safety. The magistrate hinted that the absence of prior convictions might mitigate the sentence, but also emphasized the need to deter reckless firearm use at large gatherings.

Legal analysts, including constitutional law professor Thandiwe Ndlovu, noted that the case could reshape how the courts interpret “public safety” in political contexts. “If the sentence leans toward the harsher end, it sends a clear signal that political rallies are not exempt from firearm regulations,” she said.

What This Means for South African Firearm Policy

The conviction arrives amid a broader national debate on gun control, following a spike in firearm‑related incidents during public events in the past three years. Advocacy groups such as Gun Free South Africa have called for stricter licensing and mandatory on‑site weapon checks for political gatherings.

Meanwhile, the Department of Police has announced a review of security protocols for large‑scale rallies, citing the Mdantsane case as a catalyst for reform. If new regulations are introduced, they could affect not only political parties but also private event organizers across the country.

Key Facts

• Verdict delivered: 1 October 2025 by East London Magistrate's Court.
• Defendant: Julius Malema, President of the Economic Freedom Fighters.
• Charges: Five counts of firearm misconduct for discharging a weapon at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in 2018.
• Co‑accused: Former bodyguard Adriaan Snyman (separate weapons charges).
• Prosecution: National Prosecuting Authority, which praised the judgment as evidence‑based.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly was Julius Malema convicted of?

He was found guilty on five counts of firearm misconduct for discharging a rifle in public during the EFF’s 2018 anniversary rally at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane.

How might the verdict affect future political rallies?

The ruling could lead to tighter security checks and stricter enforcement of firearm regulations at large gatherings, as authorities aim to prevent similar incidents.

What was the NPA’s stance on the case?

The National Prosecuting Authority welcomed the judgment, emphasizing that it was based on solid evidence and that the law applies equally to all, regardless of political position.

Will Julius Malema receive a custodial sentence?

Sentencing has not yet been announced. Courts typically consider factors such as prior convictions (Malema has none) and the public safety impact when determining the term.

How does this case relate to South Africa’s broader gun‑control debate?

The conviction arrives as the country grapples with rising firearm‑related incidents at public events. It may accelerate calls for stricter licensing, mandatory safety checks, and tighter enforcement of existing gun laws.