South African Firebrand Politician Jailed for Gun-Law Breach (1)

A South African court sentenced firebrand politician Julius Malemato an effective five years in jail after finding him guilty of violating the nation’s gun laws and other offenses.

The sentence of more than 12 months in prison without the option of a fine will disqualify him from serving as a lawmaker in parliament if he fails to have the judgment overturned. Malema was also fined on some counts. He’s filing an appeal — a process that can take years to conclude — and has been released on bail.

Julius Malema at an EFF rally in Polokwane in May 2024.

Photographer: Waldo Swiegers/Bloomberg

The KuGompo City Magistrate’s Court, which convicted Malema of firing ...