South African politician Julius Malema appeared again in court in South Africa, as the prosecution sought a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison for offenses related to the use of a firearm at a rally.
The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), one of the country's main opposition parties, was convicted last year of illegal possession of a firearm and use of a weapon in a public place, following an incident dating back to 2018.
At this latest sentencing hearing, prosecutors emphasized the seriousness of the offense, pointing out that Malema had fired a shotgun into the air in public. The 45-year-old defendant, for his part, has continued to plead not guilty, claiming the weapon in question was a toy.
A prison sentence exceeding 12 months, if upheld after any appeals, would disqualify Julius Malema from holding office and prevent him from serving as a member of parliament. Such an outcome would be a major blow to the EFF.
The party, classified as far left, enjoys significant support among young South Africans, particularly those frustrated by the persistent inequalities since the end of apartheid in 1994. The case is therefore being closely followed in a country where social tensions remain high.
The court's final decision could have major repercussions on the South African political landscape, weakening one of the most influential figures in the opposition and redefining the balance within Parliament.
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