Malema calls for calm as sentencing looms

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leaderJulius Malemahas called on party supporters not to engage in violence as they await his sentencing. His statement comes after some vowed that “all hell will break loose” if Malema was given a custodial sentence on Thursday in the firearm case against him. On Tuesday, party supporters held a night vigil at Jan Smuts Stadium in KuGompo, where they gathered to sing revolutionary songs in support of their president, who appeared in the magistrates’ court on Wednesday for pre-sentencing proceedings.

Last year, Malema was found guilty of contravening the Firearms Control Act. He had fired a gun at his party’s fifth anniversary celebration rally in 2018. Walking into court, Malema appeared relaxed and told theMail & Guardianthat he would go home after the sentencing.

Making his submissions in court on Wednesday, his lawyer, advocateThembeka Nqukaitobi,requested that Malema be given a non-custodial sentence. On Wednesday morning, EFF supporters marched from Jan Smuts Stadium to the court, where they gathered outside and continued singing revolutionary songs. Outside court, supporters followed proceedings on big screens provided by the party.

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The police barricaded the court precinct with fences and maintained a heavy presence. The courtroom was packed with family members; notably Malema’s wife, Mantwa, and his son, Ratanang. At 12.30pm, the magistrate, Twanet Olivier, postponed the matter until Thursday, much to the dissatisfaction of Malema’s family members and the party leadership. After proceedings, EFF supporters and leaders sangMakuliwe, loosely translated to “let’s fight”.

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