Firebrand South African opposition figure, Julius Malema, has been sentenced to five years in prison for unlawful possession of an assault rifle and discharging it during a 2018 rally.

Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), was however granted leave to appeal the sentence and has been released pending the outcome of the appeal process.

The court dismissed his attempt to overturn the earlier conviction delivered in October, ruling that he violated South Africa’s firearm laws. His defence had argued that the shots fired were merely celebratory.

The case, initiated by lobby group AfriForum, has drawn significant political attention, particularly over Malema’s use of the anti-apartheid chant “Kill the Boer,” which critics argue incites violence. Courts have previously rejected claims that the chant constitutes hate speech.

Hundreds of EFF supporters gathered outside the court during the hearing, dressed in the party’s signature red berets and chanting slogans in support of their leader.

Addressing supporters after his release, Malema accused Magistrate Twanet Olivier of bias, alleging external influence over the court’s decisions.

The EFF, which secured less than 10 percent of the vote and holds 39 parliamentary seats following the 2024 elections, described the case as politically motivated and aimed at silencing its outspoken leader. Supporters have warned of protests if he is ultimately jailed.

The magistrate, however, emphasised that the ruling was against an individual, not a political party.

Under South Africa’s constitution, a prison sentence of 12 months or more, if upheld after all appeals, would disqualify Malema from serving in parliament.