By Mapaballo Borotho
- Julius Malema’s sentencing has sparked fears of possible unrest in South Africa.
- However, protests by EFF supporters have remained peaceful so far.
- Police say the situation is under control, with no incidents reported.
Could South Africa be heading for another wave of unrest following the sentencing of Julius Malema?
The leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters was sentenced to five years in prison on Thursday, 17 April 2026, sparking widespread reaction on social media.
Some users have raised concerns about a repeat of the 2021 unrest that followed the arrest of former President Jacob Zuma.
While some EFF supporters claim the sentencing is politically motivated, political analysts believe a repeat of the 2021 violence is unlikely, arguing that public awareness and response may differ this time.
Meanwhile, the South African Police Service has been closely monitoring gatherings outside courts across the country, where EFF supporters have assembled in large numbers.
Police say that despite heightened emotions, demonstrations have remained peaceful and orderly.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe confirmed that Public Order Policing units are deployed nationwide as a precaution, but emphasised that no incidents have been reported.
She added that the conduct of supporters reflects a commitment to respecting the rule of law and maintaining stability.
It is also worth noting that on Thursday morning, there was a commotion between law enforcement agencies and some of the people who had gathered for the Court outcome in the Eastern Cape.
“During the time, the group moved from where they had gathered and went to the N4 Road. They then reportedly started pelting stones at members of the public, including law enforcement agencies. The group also attempted to block the N4 Road for the motorists, next to Courtside and the Mpumalanga High Court. It was during this time when law enforcement agencies intervened to disperse the crowd and Public Order Policing (POP) members had to use rubber bullets as well as Irritation Smoke in an attempt to coil the situation,” said Mathe.
A case of Public Violence has been opened at Nelspruit Police Station, but no one has been arrested yet.
There were no damages reported thus far and police have intensified visibility around the area.
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