Julius Malema Gun Trial Nears Conclusion as Lawyers Present Final Arguments

The trial of EFF leader Julius Malema and his bodyguard, Adriaan Snyman, is approaching its final stages. Both the state and the defense have presented their arguments in the East London Regional Court, with Magistrate Twanet Olivier set to deliver judgment soon.

The case stems from allegations that Malema fired a real gun during the EFF's fifth birthday celebration at the Sisa Dukashe Stadium in the Eastern Cape in 2018.

State prosecutor Joel Cesar argues there is compelling evidence, including video footage, witness testimony, and investigations, to show Malema acted recklessly by firing the weapon in a crowded venue.

Meanwhile, Malema's senior counsel, Laurence Hodes, dismissed the claims, stating that the state has not proven that the weapon used was real or that lives were put at risk. "The state is clutching at straws," Hodes argued in court.

The trial’s outcome now hinges on whether the court finds the evidence sufficient to prove the charges against Malema and Snyman.