Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has been found guilty of reckless endangerment after discharging a firearm in public — a case stemming from an incident that took place during a political rally several years ago.
The judgment, delivered by Magistrate Twanet Olivier, followed a lengthy and detailed recap of witness testimonies and video evidence that formed the core of the prosecution’s argument.
Malema was accused of firing a firearm into the air during the EFF’s 5th anniversary celebration at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in East London in 2018. Prosecutors argued that the act demonstrated “reckless disregard for public safety,” while Malema’s defense maintained that the weapon discharged accidentally and that no one was harmed.
After months of hearings and delays, Magistrate Olivier ruled that Malema’s conduct amounted to reckless endangerment, citing the “potential risk to life and public safety” his actions posed in a crowded environment.
“Leaders in positions of influence have a duty to set an example, not to compromise public safety,”
— Magistrate Twanet Olivier stated during the ruling.
In a notable turn, Malema’s former bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman, who was charged alongside him for allegedly providing the firearm, was acquitted of all charges. The court found insufficient evidence linking Snyman to unlawful conduct, ruling that he had not authorized the discharge.
Malema, who attended the proceedings surrounded by senior EFF officials and supporters, appeared composed as the judgment was read. Outside the court, EFF members expressed disappointment but vowed to stand by their leader, describing the case as “politically motivated.”
Sentencing for Julius Malema has been scheduled for January, where the court is expected to determine an appropriate penalty — ranging from a fine to a possible suspended sentence.
The case has once again thrust the outspoken opposition leader into the spotlight, reigniting public debate over political accountability, leadership ethics, and responsible firearm use in South Africa.
