Economic Freedom Fighters

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are a South African left-wing political party, currently the fourth largest in the country. Led by Julius Malema, the EFF is in the news due to Malema's recent sentencing to five years in prison for illegally possessing and firing a rifle at a 2018 political rally. He was convicted last year, and his lawyers have immediately sought leave to appeal the sentence and conviction. The magistrate is currently considering whether to grant the appeal. The length of the sentence could potentially disqualify Malema from serving as a Member of Parliament. The EFF's prominence in South African politics makes this legal development significant, as it could impact the party's leadership and future political strategies.