The KuGompo Magistrate’s Court granted EFF leader Julius Malema’s application for leave to appeal against his firearms case sentence on Thursday.

Malema was sentenced to 5 years imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a firearm and 2 years for the unlawful possession of ammunition. The sentences have been ordered to run concurrently. This results in only five years of jailtime.

Malema was also ordered to pay fines amounting to R60,000 for 3 other charges, or face 6 months imprisonment for each charge.

As she was handing down the sentence, Magistrate Twanet Olivier made it clear that there was a clear intent to break the law, and Malema cannot be seen to be above the law.

Following his sentencing, Malema’s legal team immediately applied for leave to appeal. Olivier has granted his leave to appeal his sentencing, but has denied his conviction appeal.

This means that Malema will not go to prison immediately and is out on a warning until his appeal is concluded.

Following proceedings, the EFF slammed the National Prosecuting Authority, saying that they have demonstrated an extraordinary and deeply suspicious appetite for imprisonment.

The party maintained that it will continue to support Malema in appealing this matter until his name is cleared.

The EFF’s Sentencing of President Julius Malema

-The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), in its pursuit of this matter, demonstrated an extraordinary and deeply suspicious appetite for imprisonment. This is the same prosecuting authority that routinely fails to secure… pic.twitter.com/JGHkconaNo

— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) April 16, 2026

Some political parties have, however, welcomed the sentence handed down to the EFF leader. Newly elected leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), Geordin Hill-Lewis, says that it sends a clear message that nobody is above the law.

Hill-Lewis added that gun violence is out of control in South Africa, so any crime involving illegal gunfire is extremely serious. It’s important to punish illegal firearm crimes harshly.

“Only when people understand that there are consequences for crime, will we get gun violence under control in South Africa. – Today is a good day for the rule of law in South Africa,” added Hill-Lewis

The Freedom Front Plus echoed this, adding that the rule of law still applies. In a statement, the party added that this sentence would result in Malema being unable to serve as a Member of Parliament.

This is according to Section 47(1)(e) of the Constitution of South Africa, which stipulates that a person may not serve as a Member of Parliament (MP) if he or she has been sentenced to more than 12 months’ imprisonment without the option of a fine, regardless of whether the sentence is suspended.

This is, however, subject to Malema’s sentencing appeal.

READ MORE: EFF slams Malema firearms trial verdict as politically motivated