Julius Malema, a prominent South African opposition politician and leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been sentenced to at least five years in prison after being found guilty of illegal possession of a firearm and firing it in a public space.

The sentencing comes after a ruling that determined Malema, who has been a vocal critic of the government, posed a significant public safety risk. His lawyer has announced intentions to appeal the decision, hoping to prevent immediate incarceration for the member of parliament.

In court, dressed in a formal dark suit with a red tie, Malema displayed little visible emotion as the magistrate delivered the verdict. This conviction adds to previous charges against him, which included unlawful possession of a firearm and reckless endangerment, stemming from an incident during the EFF's fifth anniversary celebrations where he was seen firing a semi-automatic rifle in the air.

With a sentence exceeding one year, there are ramifications for his parliamentary status, as he is disqualified from holding office unless his appeal succeeds and the sentence is overturned. The case highlights ongoing issues regarding gun laws and public safety in South Africa, further polarizing opinions on Malema's role and influence in the political landscape.