By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – South Africa’s already volatile political landscape was thrust into fresh turmoil on Thursday after African Congress for Transformation (ACT) leader Ace Magashule launched a blistering attack on the judiciary, branding the five-year prison sentence handed to Julius Malema as “racist” and “politically motivated.”
The Economic Freedom Fighters leader was sentenced by the East London Magistrate’s Court for unlawfully discharging a rifle during a 2018 rally—an incident that has long shadowed his political career.
The ruling, delivered on Thursday, 16 April, immediately ignited fierce reactions across party lines.
Magashule, a long-time ally of Malema, did not hold back.
“This sentence raises serious questions about political interference in the judiciary,” he charged.
“Racism is still alive in this country. I fully support Julius Malema’s decision to appeal. Higher courts will correct this injustice.”
His remarks escalate the stakes around the case, framing it not merely as a legal matter but as a broader political confrontation—one that touches on race, power, and the credibility of South Africa’s judicial system.
However, presiding magistrate Twanet Olivier dismissed any suggestion of political influence during sentencing, insisting the case was strictly grounded in law.
“There was no political dimension to this trial,” Olivier stated, noting that none of the 19 witnesses who testified had political affiliations or motives tied to party interests.
Despite the court’s firm stance, the political fallout is intensifying. Malema, addressing supporters before sentencing, had already signalled his intention to challenge any adverse ruling—setting the stage for what could become a protracted legal and political battle in higher courts.
The case now moves beyond the courtroom into the arena of public opinion and political mobilisation, with the potential to deepen divisions ahead of the country’s next electoral cycle.
