Malema reiterates firearm case 'was a campaign by AfriForum'

JOHANNESBURG - Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has concluded his testimony at the East London Magistrates Court, bringing leading evidence to a close in his firearm discharge trial.

Malema and security official Adriaan Snyman are accused of various charges linked to his alleged firing of live ammunition on stage at a 2022 rally in Mdantsane.

Malema wrapped up his evidence on Thursday, following which his advocate, Laurance Hodes, confirmed that the defence would not be calling any more witnesses.

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As a result, the parties will now move to prepare their closing arguments.

In the interim, Malema, who maintains the supposed weapon was a toy gun insisted his prosecution was politically motivated on the stand on Thursday.

“This I repeat was a campaign by AfriForum. We are where we are because the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) without any material evidence succumbed to the pressure of AfriForum.”

When the case will return to court again remains to be seen, with the court yet to decide on a date.