EFF ramps up support for Malema

Summary

• The leader of South Africa's far left, radical Marxist party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) was found guilty of reckless endangerment, discharging a firearm in public and unlawful possession of a firearm.
• This was after he fired a gun into the air during EFF birthday celebrations several years ago, and was caught on camera.
• His pre-sentencing trial began earlier in the year but was postponed, and will continue next week.
• Malema could be sentenced to prison, and depending on the severity of the sentence, be barred from serving in Parliament for a period thereafter. He can still appeal.
• The article recounts the case, analyses political implications and provides takes from EFF leaders and political analysts, as EFF supporters rally at the city where the court is.

Relevance

• The fact that Malema was found guilty in the first place is an encouraging symbol of the robustness of South Africa's democracy and the independence of the judiciary
• 5 years ago, in 2021, former President Zuma was found guilty of contempt of court. He was even arrested and spent time in jail.
• When Zuma was arrested (during COVID), massive riots and looting broke out. So for those who are interested in monitoring for these kids of things, that is a possibility here.
• But what is most relevant is the language of some EFF politicians quoted in the article, who are already trying to imagine how they might continue with their party if he were arrested. This is another encouraging sign: even one of the furthest left understands that if he were arrested, they would just have to move forward. The price we paid for establishing the precedent with Zuma was high, but it has clearly paid off. People understand that senior politicians really can be jailed – hence they are actually planning for that eventuality
• If the EFF were forced to actually imagine life after Malema, the party could change dramatically. It would probably have to democratize, which would probably be positive, IMO. Most of South Africa's parties are dominated by one person or maybe two, and to their detriment. We don't know what the EFF would turn into under a different leader, but there is no reason to be only pessimistic.
• This article thus provides a good intro to what will be a fascinating case and, if Malema is imprisoned, a very important week for South African democracy.