Malema Firearms Case Judgment Postponed to Tuesday
Viable News Team 
Image Credit: FREDDY MAVUNDA/BUSINESS DAY
The long-awaited judgment in Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) president Julius Malema’s firearms case has been postponed to Tuesday, 30 September 2025, after proceedings ran over in the East London Magistrates’ Court.
The case, brought by Afrikaner lobby group AfriForum in 2018, stems from a viral video showing Malema firing what appeared to be an assault rifle at the party’s fifth anniversary rally at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape. His then bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman, allegedly handed him the firearm.
Both men face charges under the Firearms Control Act, including unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Magistrate Postpones Judgment
On Monday, Magistrate Twanet Olivier began delivering her lengthy judgment, reviewing testimony and cross-examination from multiple witnesses.
“I have tried to read as fast as humanly possible. We will continue tomorrow and I am confident that there will be sufficient time for judgment to continue on 30 September. You are both on bail and bail is extended and warned to be present to proceed by 9am,” Olivier said.
She explained that the delay was necessary to provide context on how she would reach her decision, which required revisiting witness evidence in detail.
Political Overtones
A visibly frustrated Malema left court flanked by senior EFF leaders and supporters, insisting the case was politically motivated.
AfriForum has accused Malema of recklessly endangering lives by firing a gun in a crowded area. Snyman is accused of supplying him with the weapon.
The state argued that Malema’s actions posed a serious safety risk. His legal team, however, countered that there was insufficient evidence for conviction.
Witness Testimony
During the trial, a cleaner employed by the Buffalo City municipality testified that she discovered an empty cartridge while cleaning the stadium after the rally. The cartridge was later handed over to police.
Malema’s defence argued that the rifle was not real, but rather a prop gun loaded with blanks, and therefore did not fall under the Firearms Control Act.
What Happens Next
The judgment will resume at 9am on Tuesday, when Olivier is expected to continue and possibly conclude her ruling.
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