Supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) gathered in large numbers outside the KuGompo City magistrate's court today, showing unwavering allegiance to their leader, Julius Malema, who faces the possibility of a substantial prison sentence.
Image: Picture: Pedro Mapelo / I'solezwe lesiXhosa
Supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) gathered in large numbers outside the KuGompo City Magistrate's Court on Wednesday, showing unwavering allegiance to their leader, Julius Malema, who faces the possibility of a substantial prison sentence.
With the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) advocating for a fifteen-year sentence, Malema's defence team, led by renowned advocates Tembeka Ngcukaitobi SC and Laurence Hodes SC, is making final arguments aimed at persuading Magistrate Twanet Olivier for a lesser punishment.
Malema's conviction last year stemmed from multiple charges, notably unlawful possession and discharging a firearm in a public area during the EFF's fifth-anniversary celebration at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in 2018.
As arguments unfolded in court, hundreds of passionate EFF supporters stood resolute outside, underscoring their belief in Malema's innocence and the injustice of the charges against him. Sivuyile Dubeni, a supporter who travelled from Qonce, articulated a common sentiment among the crowd.
"They must allow Julius Malema to go home because he has done nothing wrong," said Dubeni.
He argued that the prosecution was politically motivated, alleging that the attacks on Malema stem from his willingness to speak out against the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and other opposition groups like AfriForum.
"People know that he killed no one on the day of the event. The gun he used does not belong to him, yet the court decided to let the owner walk free," he added.
Another EFF supporter, Bubele Zandi, said he would be happy if Malema could get a suspended sentence.
"I wish they could give him a suspended sentence because he has shown remorse."
The stakes are high for Malema; should the magistrate rule against him and impose a prison sentence without a fine, he will be forced to leave Parliament.
In previous statements, Malema has insisted that he would appeal any sentence to the highest court if necessary.
Today were the final arguments in aggravation and mitigation of sentence proceedings; Malema is expected to be sentenced on Thursday.
IOL News