Social Worker recommends suspended fine for Julius Malema following gun law conviction

It has been recommended that EFF leader Julius Malema receive a suspended monetary fine rather than direct imprisonment, following his conviction for violating gun laws.

The recommendation was made by social worker Jesse Thompson, who presented the defence’s pre-sentencing report in the East London Magistrates Court on Friday.

READ: Julius Malema sentencing could reshape EFF leadership in Parliament

Malema is appearing for pre-sentencing proceedings, stemming from a 2018 EFF rally in Mdantsane, where he was recorded firing shots into the air.

The report offers the court details about Malema and his personal circumstances to help determine an appropriate sentence.

In her evaluation, social worker Jesse Thompson stresses that Julius Malema did not intend to cause any harm when he fired shots into the air.

Thompson adds that the act was more of a celebratory gesture, as the party was marking five years of its existence.

She also highlights that the firearm was in Malema’s possession for only a short period, indicating no intention to cause injury.

Based on this, the social worker has recommended a lighter sentence, one that would not send Malema to prison.

"After a thorough assessment of the accused's personal circumstances, the seriousness of the offences, societal interests, and relevant legislation and case law, 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 license for a specified period as an ongoing deterrent. Require the accused to make a monetary donation as restitution to Gun Free South Africa, an NGO focused on reducing gun violence in South Africa."

She says given that all five charges stem from a single incident and that Malema did not load the firearm, the charges should be considered collectively for sentencing.