Cape Town – The EFF claims the state has failed to prove its case against Julius Malema and co-accused Adriaan Snyman in their trial for unlawful possession of a firearm, discharging a firearm in public, and reckless endangerment during the EFF’s 2018 anniversary celebration.
During closing arguments on Monday, the state alleged inconsistencies in Malema’s claim that he fired a fake rifle.
However, the defence highlighted significant flaws, including the absence of fingerprints, DNA, or gunshot residue linking Malema to the firearm. They also questioned the chain of custody of an empty cartridge found at the scene and noted no eyewitnesses or clear evidence directly implicated Malema.
♦️In Pictures♦️
President, Julius Malema at the East London Magistrate’s Court.
Closing arguments on the alleged discharging of a firearm at the EFF 5th Anniversary Celebrations in 2018, will be taking place.
Watch the court proceedings live on all our social media platforms.… pic.twitter.com/b6fuVwxEo8
— Economic Freedom Fighters (@EFFSouthAfrica) December 9, 2024
According to Times Live, EFF spokesperson Leigh-Ann Mathys called the case politically motivated and an attempt to discredit Malema, arguing it lacked credible evidence and should have been dismissed earlier.
“These attacks on Malema’s character are a desperate strategy to deflect attention from the state’s failure to establish a compelling case,” Times Live quoted Mathys as saying.
“The long journey of this case has been an assault on the principles of justice and fairness. It is a textbook example of using state institutions to target political opponents, particularly those who champion the cause of the oppressed and marginalised. The EFF has always maintained that this case is part of a broader effort to tarnish the reputation of Malema and disrupt the revolutionary work of the organisation.”
The trial continues on January 23 with defence arguments.
