South African Police Service (SAPS) has placed officers on standby and deployed additional public order policing units ahead of the sentencing of Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema at the East London Magistrate’s Court today.
SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Atlenda Mathe said the police have implemented measures to monitor developments following the court proceedings and will not tolerate any disruptions, violence, or intimidation. She urged EFF supporters and all citizens to exercise restraint regardless of the sentencing outcome.
“We have put measures in place,” Brigadier Mathe stated. “Intelligence is on the ground, and our public order policing members have the responsibility to ensure the safety and security of supporters.” She confirmed that sufficient police personnel have been deployed across provinces including Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, North West, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo.
Brigadier Mathe noted that police had met with provincial commissioners the previous night, and no incidents were reported during gatherings in support of Malema. Supporters conducted themselves in an orderly manner, with police escorting them under controlled conditions, including road closures coordinated with traffic authorities. “The priority is their safety as they go in and out to support Mr Malema, as well as the security of every citizen,” she added.
Police have cautioned party leadership to encourage members to remain within the confines of the law. “Our public order police are on the ground and will act decisively. We will not tolerate any disruptions, violence, or intimidation,” Brigadier Mathe emphasised. As of the morning of the sentencing, she reported no major concerns, with officers continuing to monitor the situation closely.
Malema was previously found guilty on charges related to the violation of gun laws, including possession of an unlicensed semi-automatic firearm. Prosecutors have sought a custodial sentence, while the defence has argued for a non-custodial one, citing factors such as Malema being a first-time offender and submitting a pre-sentencing report.
A practising attorney commenting on the case described it as significant for the legal fraternity. He noted that the semi-automatic firearm charge carries a prescribed minimum sentence, but the defence has pursued avenues for a proportionate outcome rather than immediate acceptance of the state’s position. The attorney highlighted that Malema, as a Member of Parliament who participates in law-making and sits on the Judicial Service Commission, faces aggravating factors that the state has raised. However, the court must consider all facts cumulatively.
The attorney pointed out that even if a custodial sentence is imposed, Malema’s legal team could immediately file for leave to appeal and seek extended bail, potentially allowing him to remain at liberty during the appeal process up to higher courts, including the Constitutional Court.
Outside the court, EFF supporters gathered despite chilly and rainy weather in East London, with numbers appearing somewhat reduced compared to previous days. The party had set up a stage and deployed its own marshals to help manage the crowd. Police maintained a visible presence with barricades to ensure order as supporters arrived chanting and singing.
Malema had expressed confidence the previous day, telling supporters he expected to go home after the proceedings regardless of the outcome—either through a non-custodial sentence or by exercising appeal rights while on extended bail.
The sentencing is being closely watched for its potential precedent in similar firearms cases and its broader implications for legal practice regarding mitigation and sentencing options.
Police continue to appeal for calm, stressing collaboration with communities and the importance of intelligence-sharing to maintain public safety throughout the day.