The East London regional court has delayed the high-profile case involving Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and security company director Adriaan Snyman after presiding magistrate Twanet Olivier fell ill. The magistrate’s illness prevented her from proceeding with the case, prompting her to postpone it in chambers without the presence of the accused or the defence team. The case is now set to resume on December 9.
This case centers around allegations that Malema and Snyman unlawfully possessed firearms and ammunition, recklessly endangered public safety, and fired a firearm in a crowded area without taking proper safety measures. The firearm in question was allegedly discharged by Malema during an EFF rally in Mdantsane in 2018 and is purportedly owned by a company under Snyman’s direction.
After 19 witnesses testified in support of the prosecution, the state concluded its case in 2023. In response, Malema and Snyman sought dismissal of the charges under Section 174 of the Criminal Procedure Act, a request the court denied. Since then, both sides have continued to present arguments, with firearms experts and forensic ballistics specialists testifying for Snyman.
Malema also took the stand, showing the court three videos he claimed were evidence of Snyman’s innocence. During his cross-examination by state advocate Joel Cesar, Malema argued that the charges against Snyman were based on assumptions, noting that both Snyman and Larry Mabunda, a co-worker, were seen approaching him in the video. “Why is it so clear that the white man is the one being charged when both Mabunda and Snyman are approaching me in that video?” Malema questioned.
With final arguments initially scheduled for last Friday, the case will now see further legal exchanges in December. Both parties are expected to submit written arguments before the next court session.
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