“I’m not afraid of prison or death” – Malema

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader, Julius Malema, says he will not be threatened into changing his political beliefs, even if he faces the prospect of imprisonment.

Malema appeared in the East London High Court today for pre-sentencing in his firearm discharge case.

The EFF leader faces multiple charges, including possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area and recklessly endangering people and property.

He was widely captured on video firing what appeared to be an automatic rifle during the EFF’s fifth birthday celebrations at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in 2018.

The defence called a social worker, Jessie Thompson, as its first witness. She told the court she did not believe Malema acted with malicious intent and testified about his difficult upbringing, including losing his mother at a young age and never knowing his father.

She also told the court that a custodial sentence would negatively affect Malema’s children and could derail his political career.

The state however argued that Malema acted recklessly, in negligence and had no due consideration of people who were at the stadium when he fired the shots.

 

Thompson also told the court that Malema has used his personal funds to assist the poor and recommended a suspended sentence, a ban on obtaining a firearm licence, and a financial contribution to Gun Free South Africa.

However the state said issuing a fine would allow Malema to use money to avoid imprisonment.

Malema’s legal team however rejected the state’s claim that imposing a fine would amount to the EFF leader buying his way out of a prison sentence.

Scores of EFF supporters gathered in East London on Friday, holding placards bearing messages of support for Malema, while others waved flags and gathered nearby.

♦️In Pictures♦️

The EFF Leadership and ground forces are in East London today for President @Julius_S_Malema’s pre-sentencing hearing.

We stand with President Julius Malema!#HandsOffMalema pic.twitter.com/KTLb4d0X0O

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) January 23, 2026

Malema has always said he was not guilty and has described the charges against him as politically driven.

Speaking to supporters outside the court, Malema said he is not afraid of prison or death adding that he sees himself as the voice of black people.

The pre-sentencing proceedings have been postponed to 15-16 April, for the final heads of arguments to be heard.

♦️Happening Now♦️

The EFF Leadership led by President @Julius_S_Malema and his family have made their way to the stage.

President will never walk alone, we will be by his side until the end.

We have a date with East London Magistrate’s Court on the 15th of April 2026.… pic.twitter.com/difpoODtZH

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) January 23, 2026