Julius Malema Sentenced to Prison

The firebrand leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, Julius Malema, was convicted on multiple firearm offenses stemming from a 2018 event.

Malema has dismissed the ruling as politically motivated and racist, vowing to appeal the sentence immediately.

The five-year prison term is a major blow to his party's prospects and has drawn the attention of international figures, including President Donald Trump.

As one of South Africa's most polarizing politicians, Malema's legal troubles are likely to spark further protests and civil unrest across the nation.