EFF Leader supporters vow vigil outside court, alleging political prosecution ahead of judgment

EAST LONDON, April 15, 2026 – A tense atmosphere enveloped the East London Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday as Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) President Julius Malema faced a pre-sentencing hearing, with a judgment expected on Thursday morning.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is pushing for a 15-year prison sentence, as confirmed by Eastern Cape spokesperson Luxolo Tyali.

He stated that the severe penalty aims to “discourage the use of firearms and highlight the seriousness of the matter” related to Malema’s charges.

Malema’s lawyer, Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, countered this by arguing that courts typically impose suspended or non-custodial sentences in similar firearm cases without harm, asserting that the state is incorrectly suggesting that prison is the standard outcome.

Ngcukaitobi is advocating for a non-custodial sentence for Malema.

The EFF has vigorously framed the prosecution as an attempt to criminalise political dissent.

EFF National Spokesperson Commissar Sinawo Thambo told Newzroom Afrika, “We are all of the feeling that he is being prosecuted for the views that he represents and for the struggle that he is wagging on behalf of African people.”

In response, the party mobilised its supporters. Malema, accompanied by his wife Mantoa, addressed a crowd of red-bereted “fighters” outside the courthouse, declaring, “We will not be silenced!”

He informed them that the magistrate had requested additional time and would deliver a judgment at 9 AM on Thursday.

Malema indicated that he would appeal any sentence handed down by the East London Magistrates Court.

He explained, “When you say you are appealing a case, it does not mean you do not show remorse; it means you disagree with the conclusion of the magistrate.”

Malema was found guilty of violating the Firearms Control Act in connection with a 2018 rally.

EFF members vowed, “We are going to be here until she hands down the sentencing.”

AfriForum expressed confidence that Malema’s gun matter will be resolved this week.

Its Community Safety spokesperson Jacques Broodryk stated optimism about the outcome, asserting that the court will deliver a fair and serious sentence, as the state seeks a minimum term of 15 years.