NPA condemns Malema over threats against state prosecutor

April 17, 2026 16

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has condemned remarks made by EFF leader, Julius Malema, against the State prosecutor in his firearm discharge case.

Addressing supporters outside the KuGompo Magistrates’ court after his sentencing, Malema took a jab at the prosecutor, saying he suffers from “short-man syndrome” and must be taught a lesson.

Malema was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a firearm, two years imprisonment for the unlawful possession of ammunition, and fines of R20,000 each for discharging a firearm in public, failure to take reasonable precautions, and reckless endangerment.

The sentences will run concurrently.

The court granted Malema leave to appeal his sentence, but dismissed his application for leave to appeal his conviction.

NPA spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago, said threats against prosecutors, whether perceived as credible or not, must be treated with the utmost seriousness.

He added that such conduct must be reported to law enforcement authorities.

“These officials serve the public by representing the State and are constitutionally mandated to execute their duties without fear, favour, or prejudice.

“Such conduct undermines the rule of law and poses a real risk to the safety and lives of those entrusted with upholding justice.”

Kganyago said the remarks are a great cause for concern, given that three prosecutors have been killed in the Eastern Cape over the past two years.

“The NPA remains resolute in its commitment to safeguard its prosecutors and ensure that they are able to perform their functions independently, safely, and effectively.

“Prosecutors are officers of the court and a threat to a prosecutor will attract consequences, and anyone must desist from whatever form of threat against them.”

NPA Condemns Social Media Threats Against Prosecutor in the Malema Case https://t.co/Rwv5ipDAk1 pic.twitter.com/3lwWmBbV1C

— NPASouthAfrica (@NPA_Prosecutes) April 17, 2026

Malema also took a swipe at Magistrate, Twanet Olivier, saying he was glad he would never have to see her “ugly white face” again.

The leader of the red berets even waved goodbye to the magistrate after her was granted his leave to appeal his sentence and released on warning.

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Commander-in-Chief and President of the EFF, @Julius_S_Malema, addressing fighters outside the East London Magistrate’s Court.

We can tell you now, no sober judge would agree that a person who shot one bullet should be sentenced to five years. It is because she… pic.twitter.com/LpySaulAj9

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) April 16, 2026