Julius Malema’s conviction on all charges in the firearm case against him is welcomed, but the delay in sentencing, until 23 January 2026, is disappointing. Justice should be served swiftly.
The case stems from Malema discharging an assault rifle during the EFF’s 2018 anniversary celebration in Mdantsane.
South Africans are tired of crime and government’s apparent reluctance to take decisive action in certain cases. Delays in letting justice run its course create the perception of unequal justice.
The ruling, nonetheless, confirms that no-one is above the law. The Freedom Front Plus endorses this principle and demands that it be consistently applied.
Now, the party would like to see concrete steps taken to investigate Malema’s alleged role in the VBS scandal and other corruption charges.
Meanwhile, AfriForum has submitted its “Malema dossier” to officials in President Donald Trump’s administration at the White House.
It lists several complaints including hate speech, incitement to violence, corruption allegations and even support for terrorist organisations spanning years.
In South Africa’s crime-marred society, political leaders should not be exempted from prosecution. Malema deserves the harshest punishment, even if it is only handed down in January 2026.
