Will Julius Malema walk free? Verdict expected in long-running firearm trial
Julius Malema
The East London Magistrate’s Court is set to deliver judgment today in the highly publicised firearm case involving Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and his former bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman.
The case stems from the EFF’s fifth anniversary rally at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in July 2018, where a viral video appeared to show Malema firing a rifle into the air while addressing thousands of supporters. Prosecutors argue that the act endangered lives and violated the Firearms Control Act, while the defence maintains the weapon was merely a prop gun firing blanks.
Both Malema and Snyman face charges of unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, reckless endangerment, and contravention of firearm laws. If convicted, Malema could face a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
The trial, which has dragged on for years due to delays and disputes over video evidence, reached its closing arguments on 21 July 2025. Malema’s legal team stressed that no witness among the 30,000 attendees reported seeing live rounds discharged. The prosecution, however, contends that spent cartridges, the video footage, and the crowd’s reaction confirm otherwise.
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FAQ Section
1. What is Julius Malema on trial for?
He is accused of unlawfully discharging a firearm, contravening the Firearms Control Act, and endangering lives at the EFF’s 2018 rally.
2. Who is Adriaan Snyman?
Snyman is Malema’s former bodyguard, accused of handing him the rifle before the alleged gunfire.
3. Could Malema go to prison if found guilty?
Yes, he faces up to 15 years in jail if convicted on the firearm charges.
4. Why has the case taken so long?
The trial has faced repeated delays due to challenges around the authenticity of video evidence and procedural arguments.
5. Did any witnesses confirm live gunfire?
No attendees came forward to testify that live rounds were fired, which the defence argues undermines the state’s case.
