Malema’s Legal Team Pushes Back Against Claim That Fine Means ‘Buying Freedom’ In Firearm Case

Julius Malema, the fiery leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been making headlines once again as he faces sentencing in his firearm discharge case. However, his legal team has been quick to dismiss the state’s assertion that imposing a fine would effectively allow Malema to avoid a prison sentence by paying his way out.

Malema is set to appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where the focus will be on sentencing in his case. The argument has emerged that by paying a fine, Malema would essentially be “buying his freedom.” But his legal team has pushed back against this claim, stating that it is simply not true.

The EFF leader has been embroiled in this legal battle for some time now, and it all stems from an incident that took place in 2018. Malema was caught on camera firing a rifle at an EFF rally in East London, and this led to him being charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a built-up area, and reckless endangerment.

After a lengthy court process, Malema was found guilty of the charges and is now awaiting sentencing. The state has argued that a fine would not be a suitable punishment, as it would essentially allow Malema to escape a prison sentence by paying a sum of money. But his legal team has pointed out that this is not the case.

In a statement, Malema’s lawyer, Advocate Laurence Hodes, said that the state’s argument was “misconceived and without merit.” He explained that the law allows for the imposition of a fine as an alternative to imprisonment, and it is not a means of “buying freedom.”

Hodes also highlighted that Malema has no previous convictions and has been a law-abiding citizen, which should be taken into consideration during sentencing. He added that imposing a fine would be a fair and just punishment in this case.

The EFF has also come out in support of their leader, stating that they have full confidence in the legal system and that they believe Malema will receive a fair sentence. They have also urged the public not to jump to conclusions and to allow the court process to run its course.

Malema’s legal team has also pointed out that the state’s argument is flawed, as it implies that only those who cannot afford to pay a fine should be imprisoned. This goes against the principle of equality before the law and would be a violation of Malema’s rights.

The EFF leader has been vocal about his innocence throughout the court proceedings, maintaining that he was merely demonstrating his right to bear arms as a citizen of South Africa. He has also accused the state of targeting him due to his political beliefs and has vowed to continue fighting for the rights of all South Africans.

In conclusion, the claim that imposing a fine on Julius Malema would be equivalent to “buying his freedom” is unfounded and has been refuted by his legal team. The law allows for the imposition of a fine as an alternative to imprisonment, and this should be considered during sentencing. As the court prepares to hand down its decision, it is important to remember that everyone is equal before the law, and justice must be served without prejudice.