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Julius Malema, President of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), testified in the ongoing case concerning allegations of firearm misuse during the party’s fifth anniversary celebrations in 2018.
(The Post News)- As South Africa geared up for the presidential inauguration on June 19, 2024, opposition party leader Malema took a defiant stand on Wednesday. Amid preparations for the national event, he vigorously disputed charges, adamantly asserting that the firearm in question was not in his possession or control during the alleged incident.
Julius Malema, President of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), testified in the ongoing case concerning allegations of firearm misuse during the party’s fifth anniversary celebrations in 2018.
Malema, alongside his bodyguard, faces charges related to the discharge of a firearm, with specific accusations of unlawful possession and contraventions of firearm laws.
During proceedings at the East London Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, the defence called upon firearms expert Martin Hood as their initial witness.
Hood’s testimony aimed to clarify technical aspects surrounding the allegations against Malema.
According to Malema, the stage allegedly damaged by gunfire was inspected by its owners, who found no evidence of harm to their property.
He adamantly stated that he did not discharge live ammunition during the event.
Malema declined to answer questions regarding a firearm reportedly found in another individual’s residence, emphasising that the burden of proof lies with the state to substantiate their claims against him.
Malema’s defence strategy included challenging the state’s evidence, arguing that no concrete proof implicating him in the use of a firearm had been presented.
He argued the necessity for the prosecution to demonstrate the firearm’s legitimacy and its connection to him.
The charges against Malema include unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful possession of ammunition, and multiple counts under the Firearms Control Act.
His defence hinges on the assertion that there is insufficient evidence directly linking him to the alleged offences.
The trial continues to unfold at the East London Magistrate’s Court, with Malema’s defence team vigorously contesting the accusations brought against him.
The outcome of this case will likely hinge on the court’s assessment of the evidence presented by both sides regarding the alleged discharge of a firearm during a public event.
The case has drawn significant public and media attention, given Malema’s prominent role in South African politics and the implications of the charges against him.
The trial’s outcome could influence perceptions of Malema’s leadership and the EFF’s stance on legal and regulatory issues concerning firearms.
As proceedings move forward, the judiciary will deliberate on the evidence and arguments presented, ultimately determining whether Malema is culpable of the charges brought against him.
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