Malema's five-year sentence tests the EFF's election prospects

Julius Malema, leader of South Africa's Economic Freedom Fighters, was convicted of multiple firearm offences and given a five-year prison term, but he can appeal and remains an MP during the appellate process, potentially allowing him to contest local elections and even seek reelection in 2029; analysts say the lengthy appeal could take years and reach the Constitutional Court, while some note the sentence could bolster his political narrative and the EFF's campaigning despite internal leadership changes.