Julius Malema sentencing set for April following mitigation testimony

The pre-sentencing hearing for EFF leader Julius Malema has concluded, with the matter scheduled to return to court on 15 April for final heads of argument and sentencing.

Malema appeared at the East London Magistrate’s Court on Friday for mitigation proceedings, which included testimony from social worker Jessie Thompson.

READ: Social Worker argues no malicious intent in Julius Malema firearm case

Thompson, who prepared a pre-sentencing report on Malema, recommended that he be given a fine rather than a custodial sentence. She stated that Malema intended to cause no harm when he fired shots into the air during the incident in question.

Magistrate Twanet Olivier confirmed that Malema’s sentencing will span two days to allow for the thorough consideration of the final heads of argument.

Malema’s legal team requested the lengthy postponement to provide sufficient time to prepare these final submissions. The Magistrate will consider the arguments on 15 April and is expected to move to sentencing on the same day.

Throughout the day, hundreds of EFF supporters gathered outside the court, waiting to be addressed by their leader following the conclusion of the day's proceedings. Malema has repeatedly announced his intention to appeal the conviction, maintaining that the legal action against him is politically motivated.