East London (KuGompo) – Supporters of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) gathered outside the KuGompo Magistrate’s Court in the Eastern Cape on Wednesday morning to show solidarity with their leader, Julius Malema, who appeared for the final heads of arguments in his firearm-related case before possible sentencing.
The EFF members were seen singing struggle songs as they waited for court proceedings to continue. Many had spent the night outside the court during a vigil and were resting or sitting quietly while the session was adjourned. Court is expected to reconvene at around 11:00.
According to the live report from the scene, the case centres on Malema’s contravention of South Africa’s gun laws. The state has argued that Malema has shown no remorse on the firearm charge he faces, which could potentially result in a custodial sentence of up to 15 years.
Despite the possibility of incarceration, Malema has maintained that he will appeal the judgment once it is finalised and intends to take the matter to a higher court.
The gathering remained peaceful, with supporters patiently awaiting the outcome of the mitigation and pre-sentencing proceedings.
The EFF spokesperson or the party’s national leadership has not issued additional comment in the immediate lead-up to the arguments, but the strong show of support underscores the party’s mobilisation around its commander-in-chief during the legal process.