Malema was found guilty last year of multiple firearm‑related offences stemming from an incident during the EFF’s fifth‑anniversary celebrations at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in 2018.

The conviction relates to the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, the discharge of a firearm in a built‑up area, and reckless endangerment. Video footage of the rally, which resurfaced during the trial, showed Malema allegedly firing shots into the air from the stage.

Thousands of supporters have converged on East London to demonstrate solidarity with Malema, with party members describing the case as politically motivated. The atmosphere outside the court is expected to remain tense as proceedings resume.

EFF Secretary‑General Marshall Dlamini told reporters that the party remains fully behind Malema and intends to support an appeal against the judgment. He insisted the case would not deter the party leader from carrying out his political duties.

“She must not waste our time,” Dlamini said, referring to the presiding magistrate. “She must bring that sentencing, then we will determine the next course of action. If there is one thing the voters and members of the EFF must know, it is that tomorrow the CIC, the president of the EFF, is going back to the Winnie Madikizela House to continue with the work he was elected to do.”

Dlamini added that Malema would resume his responsibilities in Johannesburg on Monday, emphasising that the party’s activities would continue uninterrupted.

The pre‑sentencing hearing is expected to outline possible penalties, with the defence indicating it will challenge both conviction and sentence.

–SABC/ChannelAfrica–