Thousands of supporters of South African opposition politician Julius Malema gathered outside a court on Friday as the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party leader awaited sentencing for firing a rifle in the air at a rally in 2018. A prison sentence exceeding 12 months, upheld through all appeals, would disqualify Malema from parliament – a blow to the EFF, which is popular among young South Africans critical of government efforts to address racial inequalities that have persisted since the end of white minority rule. He faces a possible prison sentence of up to 15 years, but could be given a more lenient sentence, such as community service, if the court thinks there are mitigating factors. The 44-year-old politician was convicted in October of charges including unlawful possession of a firearm and discharging a weapon in a public place. He had pleaded not guilty, arguing the gun was a toy.

Full report : Supporters gather as firebrand South African politician Malema awaits sentence.