Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has issued a stern warning to lobby group AfriForum, accusing it of using the courts to fight political battles.
Malema was speaking outside the East London Magistrate’s Court on Friday following pre-sentencing proceedings in his firearm-related case.
The 44-year-old claimed AfriForum was afraid of open political debate and was instead relying on the judiciary to settle political differences.
“They are scared of political engagement and debate. They use the courts to fight political battles,” the EFF leader said.
Julius Malema was convicted in October last year on charges of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment.
The conviction stems from an incident at the EFF’s fifth anniversary celebrations at Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane in 2018, where Malema was filmed firing a firearm into the air.
The case has been postponed to Wednesday, 15 April 2026, when closing arguments will be presented before the court considers sentencing.
In a fiery address to supporters, Malema claimed the South African courts were being influenced by political motives.
“We must never be shaken by a court that is informed by hatred and the politics of AfriForum,” he said.
Julius Malema warns AfriForum
He went on to issue a controversial warning, saying AfriForum members should “pray” that the EFF never comes to power.
“The day the EFF becomes a government in South Africa, we are going to lock up all AfriForum members because they are terrorists. They are anti-South Africa, they undermine our country, its freedom and its Constitution,” Malema said.
Despite facing sentencing, Julius Malema insisted that the EFF’s political mission would continue regardless of the outcome.
“Whatever happens, the revolution must continue,” he said.
