Malema is not a candidate for direct imprisonment: Thompson

EFF members in East London to show support to their leader Julius Malema.

A private social worker has told the East London Regional Court that EFF leader Julius Malema is not a candidate for direct imprisonment.

Malema is appearing in court for pre-sentencing proceedings, following his conviction for discharging a firearm during the party’s fifth anniversary celebrations held in Mdantsane back in 2018. His conviction includes the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area and reckless endangerment.

In her pre-sentencing report, Jessie Thompson states that no harm was caused and that the firearm in question was discharged in a celebratory manner and that no violence was intended.

Thompson says that Malema has a great reputation for being a community builder through his charitable work.

“After the thorough assessment of the accused’s personal circumstances, the seriousness of the offences, societal interest and relevant legislation in the case, the following sentencing proposal is made: impose a fine that reflects the gravity of the offences, with the fine suspended; to encourage continued lawful behaviour; restrict the accused from obtaining a firearm licence for a period, as an ongoing deterent; require the accused to make a monetary donation as restitution to gunfree South Africa, an NGO focused on reducing gang violence in South Africa.”

LIVE | The State is questioning social worker Jessie Thompson on her pre-sentencing report in the case involving EFF leader Julius Malema. pic.twitter.com/PEakxKuSn4

— SABC News (@SABCNews) January 23, 2026