Aerobics gains momentum in Malawi as mindsets shift

ZOMBA-(MaraviPost)-One of the pioneers of aerobics in Malawi Yusuf Nguli Msosa has expressed excitement over the growing number of people embracing the fitness activity, describing it as a sign of changing attitudes and increased awareness about healthy living across the country.

Speaking in an interview with MaraviPost, Msosa said the rise in participation reflects a positive shift from past perceptions that limited the appeal of aerobics to only certain groups of people.

He explained that in earlier years, many Malawians believed aerobics was mainly meant for overweight individuals or those specifically advised by medical professionals to engage in physical exercise.

According to Msosa, such misconceptions discouraged a broader section of the population from participating, as many felt the activity did not apply to them.

However, he noted that the narrative is steadily changing, with more people now recognizing aerobics as a beneficial activity for everyone, regardless of body type or health condition.

He attributed this transformation to increased awareness campaigns and the visible benefits that participants continue to experience including improved fitness and overall well being.

Msosa further observed that the growing popularity of aerobics is not only confined to urban areas but is also spreading into various communities, signaling a nationwide shift toward healthier lifestyles.

Despite the progress, he emphasized the need for more stakeholders to come on board to support and promote the activity at different levels.

He specifically appealed to non-governmental organizations and companies to take an active role in encouraging their employees and communities to participate in aerobics.

Msosa suggested that organizations can incorporate aerobics into their wellness programs as a way of improving the health and productivity of their workforce.

He stressed that regular participation in such physical activities helps strengthen the body and can prevent various lifestyle-related illnesses.

Msosa said he remains optimistic that with continued support and changing mindsets, aerobics will become an integral part of everyday life for many Malawians.

73 Palestinians found hiding in garbage truck at Israeli checkpoint

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TEL AVIVI-(MaraviPost)-Israeli police on Monday arrested 73 Palestinian men who were attempting to enter Israel by hiding in the back of a garbage truck, in what authorities described as a dangerous and distressing smuggling attempt.

The incident occurred at a checkpoint along Route 5 after police acted on prior intelligence that the vehicle was being used to transport people illegally.

Video footage released by the Israel Police showed dozens of men crammed into the rear compartment of the truck as the back was lifted during the inspection.

The driver, a 30-year-old man from Kfar Qassem, did not hold a valid license to operate the vehicle and allegedly charged each passenger NIS 1,000, roughly $330, for the journey.

Police inspector Itai Almog told KAN News that officers had covertly followed the truck toward the checkpoint but were not prepared for the scale of what they found.

“Dozens of illegal entrants are hiding, trying to infiltrate into Israel,” Almog said.

The term “illegal entrants” is commonly used by Israeli authorities to describe Palestinians entering the country without permits, often in search of work.

According to Almog, the driver initially did not cooperate and claimed he did not know how to open the rear compartment.

After a private conversation lasting about two hours, the driver finally opened the tailgate, revealing the full scope of the event.

“When he opens the rear tailgate, we actually understand the scale of the event: 73 illegal entrants found inside a garbage truck,” Almog said. Police emphasized the severe risks the men faced.

The garbage truck still contained waste, and officers warned of toxic gases and the potential for suffocation.

“The garbage truck was full of trash, which posed a clear danger to their lives. They are endangering themselves by the very fact that they are inside,” Almog said.

The case has drawn attention to the economic pressures facing many Palestinians in the West Bank, where work permits for Israel have been sharply curtailed following the October 7, 2023, massacre.

The loss of jobs in Israel has left thousands without income, and police say that is driving increasingly desperate attempts to cross into Israel.

“The lack of work in the Palestinian Authority leads the unemployed to find original, creative ways to enter Israel,” Almog said.

He added that police are targeting transporters, those who provide shelter, and employers as part of efforts to curb the phenomenon.

Since the beginning of the war with Iran, authorities have made 1,800 arrests related to illegal entry, according to Almog.

“The security establishment is trying to fight a phenomenon that is only getting worse,” he said.

The incident underscores the broader dilemma facing Israeli policymakers.

Security concerns remain high, particularly in the current climate.

Recent polling from the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research found that 59 percent of Palestinians living in the West Bank believe the October 7 attack was “the right decision,” while 32 percent expressed support for Hamas and the idea of armed struggle against Israel.

At the same time, the same data indicates that two-thirds of West Bank Palestinians do not support Hamas.

The economic fallout from the permit restrictions has been severe.

Many Palestinians who lost jobs in Israel have been unable to pay rent or cover basic necessities, police and analysts noted. The Tel Aviv-based Institute for National Security Studies has recommended that Israel consider a selective and controlled policy for granting work permits to mitigate both humanitarian and security risks.

The institute suggested focusing on workers who present a minimal security risk, such as older, married workers with children who are the primary breadwinners for their families.

It warned of imminent economic collapse in parts of the West Bank and the security implications of a deepening crisis, arguing that alleviating Palestinian economic suffering could also serve Israeli security interests.

The extremities of Monday’s attempt, with 73 men risking their lives in a garbage truck, have been cited by police as evidence of the worsening situation. “This is a foul story of the devaluation of human life,” police said in a statement. The driver of the truck is expected to face charges related to transporting illegal entrants and operating a vehicle without a license. The 73 men were taken into custody for processing.

It was not immediately clear what penalties they would face, though such cases typically result in deportation back to the West Bank and possible bans on future entry. The event has reignited debate in Israel over how to balance security with economic policy.

Some commentators argue that any relaxation of work permits risks a repeat of October 7, while others maintain that economic despair fuels instability. The police have not indicated whether any of the men found in the truck were suspected of security offenses beyond illegal entry.

For now, the case stands as one of the largest single smuggling attempts intercepted at a checkpoint in recent months. It also highlights the human dimension of a policy landscape shaped by war, security, and economic collapse.

As inspector Almog put it, the men endangered themselves by being inside a vehicle filled with trash and toxic gases, yet the sums they paid and the risks they took point to the depth of the economic crisis.

The Israeli government has not announced any change to its permit policy following the incident. Discussions on selective access for Palestinian laborers continue among security and political officials, with no consensus yet on how to proceed.

The garbage truck case will likely be cited in those discussions as an example of the pressures building on both sides of the checkpoint.

Blantyre Synod denies MK2 billion mismanagement

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) has moved to dispel allegations circulating among some members that it diverted funds meant for settling a reported MK2 billion obligation to purchase vehicles for its leadership.

Speaking to Maravi Post, the Synod’s Moderator Reverend Reynold Mangisa dismissed the claims as misleading and unfounded.

Mangisa said the Synod operates under a structured and transparent budgeting system, which is scrutinized by the Land and Property Committee and the General Administration Committee both of which include church members.

He clarified that the Synod recently acquired only two second-hand Nissan X-Trail vehicles (2013 and 2014 models) at a combined cost of MK22.5 million.

He added that the Toyota Fortuner currently used by the General Secretary was procured earlier to replace a similar vehicle that was written off in an accident several years ago.

Mangisa further explained that vehicle procurement for Synod moderators has long been part of the approved budget and could have been implemented earlier.

Addressing the issue of the reported K2 billion, Mangisa stressed that the Synod does not have a bank loan.

Instead, he said that in 2023 the Synod consolidated outstanding obligations related to taxes and pensions, which totaled approximately MK2 billion.

“Taxes and pensions are not loans but obligations. The Synod is making significant progress in settling these commitments,” said Mangisa.

Prophet Njiragoma-“God has chosen Dr. George Partridge to succeed Mutharika in DPP”

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Prophet Harrison Njiragoma has declared that God has rejected current aspirants seeking to replace former President Peter Mutharika as leader of the Democratic Progressive Party and has instead chosen Dr. George Partridge to take over from 2030.

In a statement released to the public, Njiragoma said the Lord revealed to him the future of the DPP, stating that those “busily preparing themselves to take over from APM” will not succeed because “God has rejected them.”

According to the prophet, Dr. George Partridge is the divinely appointed successor who will assume leadership “without difficulty and for the good of the nation of Malawi.” Njiragoma urged party members with influence to “not harden ourselves from now into the future” and to align with what he described as God’s revealed plan.

Drawing a biblical parallel, Njiragoma cited the anointing of David to replace King Saul. “When God chose David to be King in place of Saul, all the sons of Jesse, especially the eldest, considered themselves and believed that each one of them was the king. But when all of them came before Elisha, God rejected them,” he said.

The statement claims that “the leadership of the DPP and the future of our country Malawi has been given to Dr. George Partridge from 2030 going forward.” Njiragoma added that “everyone knows very well where DPP has come from, but God is revealing to us the future before it happens.”

Njiragoma concluded his message by stating, “The joy of a Prophet is not in his words, but when his words are fulfilled.” He signed off with “The Mighty DPP 2035 wooyee!”

The prophecy comes at a time when speculation continues over succession within the DPP following Peter Mutharika’s leadership.

Several senior party figures have been publicly associated with ambitions to lead the party, although the DPP has not formally opened a succession process.

Dr. George Partridge is known within political and academic circles, but has not publicly declared interest in the DPP presidency.

By press time, there was no comment from Dr. Partridge regarding Njiragoma’s pronouncement.

The DPP secretariat had also not issued an official response to the prophecy.

Party insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, said leadership questions are expected to be handled through the party’s constitutional structures and elective convention.

Religious pronouncements on political succession are not new in Malawi, where prophets and clergy have previously issued predictions on elections and party leadership. Such statements often draw mixed reactions from party supporters and the wider public.

Njiragoma’s message specifically frames 2030 as the transition year, suggesting continuity under Mutharika until then.

The reference to “The Mighty DPP 2035” indicates the prophet envisions the party remaining in national leadership into the next decade.

While the statement is framed as divine revelation, it enters a politically sensitive environment where jostling for position within major parties is closely watched.

Prophet Harrison Njiragoma said he stands by the revelation and invited the public to engage him directly for further clarification or prayer.

Your Neighbourhood Guide to Blaauwberg

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If you’re seeking postcard-perfect views of Table Mountain, world-class watersports, and a relaxed coastal vibe, Blaauwberg should be at the top of your Cape Town bucket list.

Just 20 minutes from the Cape Town CBD, Blaauwberg is where the wind shows off, making it the city’s ultimate playground for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It’s not just for thrill-seekers, though. With its iconic views, wide-open beaches, and laid-back vibe, this neighbourhood offers something for everyone.

Here’s what you can dive into on your next visit:

Where to Go

Kitesurfing or surfing

For thrill-seekers and water-sports enthusiasts, Blouberg is an adventurer’s dream destination. It offers ideal conditions for surfing and kitesurfing, making it one of South Africa’s top spots for wave-riding adventures. Whether you’re a beginner taking your first lessons or an experienced rider chasing adrenaline, the waves and wind here cater to every level.

Locations: Kite Beach, Dolphin Beach, Blouberg Beach, and Big Bay.

Bloubergstrand Beach

Bloubergstrand Beach offers front-row views of Table Bay, Table Mountain and Robben Island. Out on the water, things get lively. Thanks to the steady wind and open-ocean swell, kitesurfers and windsurfers spend more time in the air than on the water, pulling off moves that are hard to ignore (even if you’re just there for the snacks).

Bring a picnic, claim your patch of sand, and let the show come to you. Or head to the promenade, where you’ll find a steady stream of joggers, dog walkers and sunset chasers, all making the most of the view.

Location: Marine Drive, Cape Town

Blaauwberg Nature Reserve

Home to 559 plant species, 45 mammal species, and 30 types of reptiles, this nature reserve is a haven for biodiversity. From the top of Blaauwberg Hill, visitors are treated to sweeping views down fynbos-covered slopes, across the city skyline, and out towards seven kilometres of rugged, sandy coastline meeting the endless ocean. Blaauwberg Hill is one of the rare places in the world where you can see two proclaimed World Heritage Sites at once: Table Mountain and Robben Island. Visitors can also enjoy scenic runs, walks, or picnics.

Location: Eerste Steen Resort, Otto du Plessis Drive
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/Blaauwberg

Go Shopping

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds while enjoying a bit of retail therapy, you’re in luck! The area is packed with shopping spots, including Table Bay Mall, Bayside Mall, Eden on the Bay, Tableview Shopping Centre, and Seaside Village Shopping Centre. These malls are full of restaurants and cafés and even have fun kiddies’ zones.

Meet the penguins at SANCCOB

Get up close to the adorable (and surprisingly feisty) African penguins at the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds — the heroes behind the rescue, rehabilitation, and protection of seabirds along our coast.

Pop in for a visit, roll up your sleeves to volunteer, or take things to the next level by adopting a penguin (yes, you get to name it!). It’s a feel-good way to support an incredible cause and make a flippered friend for life.

Location: 22 Pentz Dr, Table View
Website: sanccob.co.za/

Where to Eat and Drink

Enjoy fresh seafood at Blowfish restaurant in Blouberg.

Blowfish Restaurant, Dolphin Beach Hotel

Blowfish at the Dolphin Beach Hotel is a go-to spot for great seafood, sushi, and some of the best views in Cape Town. Kick back at the Sushi Bar and enjoy a glass of bubbly as the sun sets over the Atlantic, with Table Mountain in the background. The menu leans into fresh flavours from the sea, with meat and pasta options too, making it perfect for an easygoing meal and a seriously good sunset.

Location: 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Website: blowfishrestaurant.co.za/

Ons Huisie Restaurant

Originally built as a small beach cottage in the early 1900s, this local gem evolved into a buzzing restaurant celebrating the heritage and culture of the Cape. The restaurant pays homage to the West Coast, with seafood taking centre stage. On the menu, you’ll find oysters, potjie, fish and chips, mussels, meat dishes, and vegetarian options. True to its roots, the restaurant even serves traditional favourites such as pickled fish and koeksisters.

Location: Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Website: onshuisie.co.za/

On The Rocks

Get a front-row seat to iconic 180° ocean views of Table Mountain and Robben Island while indulging in a fine-dining feast. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this beloved restaurant celebrates a sea-and-land theme, complemented by some of the finest wines. Book your table in advance to secure the best seat.

Location: 45 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Website: ontherocks.co.za/

Trecastelli Tradizione Italiana

Enjoy a little slice of Italy at Trecastelli, a charming family-run spot serving Italian classics and pastries inspired by traditional recipes straight from Roma. Their pizzas and pasta are always worth ordering, with plenty of vegetarian options. And whatever you do, don’t skip dessert, as their cannoli and tiramisu are absolute favourites.

Location: 2 Porterfield Rd, Table View
Website: trecastelli.co.za/

Mamacita’s Blouberg

Inspired by the vibrant spirit of Los Angeles and the delicious flavours of Mexico, Mamacita’s extensive Margarita menu is paired with an equally impressive food menu. With live music on weekends, it’s the ideal spot to unwind with friends.

Location: 11 Marine Cir, Table View
Website: mamacitas.co.za/

Illy cafe

At first, it feels like you’re just popping in for a regular coffee, but walk down the stairs, and you’ll discover one of the city’s best-kept views. With its laid-back, chic vibe, you can sip your favourite coffee or smoothie, grab a snack or breakfast, and soak up the scenery. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a walk or a hike.

Location: 47 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand

Where to Stay

Escape to the Blaauwberg Beach Hotel for a luxe stay with great views.

Blaauwberg Beach Hotel

Located near Blouberg Beach, this 4-star retreat offers a relaxed coastal vibe. With 140 stylish rooms and suites, every stay comes with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and for the lucky ones, sweeping views of Table Mountain or Robben Island. Foodies can dine at Waves Restaurant, where dishes are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Spend your afternoons unwinding in any of the three pools or getting a tan on the beach.

Location: 106 Beach Blvd, Bloubergstrand
Website: www.blaauwbergbeachhotel.co.za/

Dolphin Beach Hotel

Located right on the beach at Bloubergstrand, Dolphin Beach Hotel offers one of the best beachfront stays in Cape Town, with uninterrupted views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Rietvlei Lagoon. Choose from spacious self-catering studio and one-bedroom apartments, as well as two-bedroom beach cabanas, each with open-plan living areas, kitchenettes, and private balconies or patios. During your stay, enjoy a pampering session at Avara Day Spa or a dining experience at Blowfish Restaurant.

Location: Dolphin Beach, 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Website: www.visitdolphinbeach.com/

Aquarius Luxury Suites

This upmarket apartment-style hotel blends the comfort of home with the indulgence of luxury. Each suite is fully equipped with a modern kitchen, spacious living areas, bathrooms, and large balconies, perfect for watching sunsets or enjoying morning coffee with a sea breeze. Choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom units with dramatic city views. While you enjoy the privacy of a self-catering suite, you’ll also benefit from daily housekeeping, a 24-hour concierge, and secure undercover parking.

Location: 10 Blaauwberg Rd, Table View
Website: www.aquariussuites.co.za/

The post Your Neighbourhood Guide to Blaauwberg appeared first on Cape Town Tourism.

Your Neighbourhood Guide to Blouberg

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If you’re seeking postcard-perfect views of Table Mountain, world-class watersports, and a relaxed coastal vibe, Blouberg should be at the top of your Cape Town bucket list.

Just 20 minutes from the Cape Town CBD, Blouberg is where the wind shows off, making it the city’s ultimate playground for kitesurfing and windsurfing. It’s not just for thrill-seekers, though. With its iconic views, wide-open beaches, and laid-back vibe, this neighbourhood offers something for everyone.

Here’s what you can dive into on your next visit:

Where to Go

Kitesurfing or surfing

Locations: Kite Beach, Dolphin Beach, Blouberg Beach, and Big Bay.

Bloubergstrand Beach

Location: Marine Drive, Cape Town

Blaauwberg Nature Reserve

Location: Eerste Steen Resort, Otto du Plessis Drive
Website: www.capetown.gov.za/Blaauwberg

Go Shopping

Meet the penguins at SANCCOB

Location: 22 Pentz Dr, Table View
Website: sanccob.co.za/

Where to Eat and Drink

Enjoy fresh seafood at Blowfish restaurant in Blouberg.

Blowfish Restaurant, Dolphin Beach Hotel

Location: 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Website: blowfishrestaurant.co.za/

Ons Huisie Restaurant

Location: Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Website: onshuisie.co.za/

On The Rocks

Location: 45 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand
Website: ontherocks.co.za/

Trecastelli Tradizione Italiana

Location: 2 Porterfield Rd, Table View
Website: trecastelli.co.za/

Mamacita’s Blouberg

Location: 11 Marine Cir, Table View
Website: mamacitas.co.za/

Illy cafe

Location: 47 Stadler Rd, Bloubergstrand

Where to Stay

Blaauwberg Beach Hotel

Location: 106 Beach Blvd, Bloubergstrand
Website: www.blaauwbergbeachhotel.co.za/

Dolphin Beach Hotel

Location: Dolphin Beach, 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand
Website: www.visitdolphinbeach.com/

Aquarius Luxury Suites

Location: 10 Blaauwberg Rd, Table View
Website: www.aquariussuites.co.za/

The post Your Neighbourhood Guide to Blouberg appeared first on Cape Town Tourism.

Nigerian airstrike sparks controversy over civilian casualties

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ABUJA-(MaraviPost)-The Nigerian military has declared an attack on a market in the remote village of Jilli a successful strike on a known terrorist enclave.

The airstrike, carried out by the Nigerian Air Force, was part of efforts to combat Boko Haram militants in the region.

Eyewitnesses describe a different scene, saying more than 100 people killed were traders and other members of the community, including women and children.

The strike occurred on April 11, 2026, at the Jilli market, located on the border of Borno and Yobe states, an area known to be a hotspot for Islamist militants.

The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation into the incident, with Defence Minister General Christopher Musa insisting that those killed were not innocent civilians but individuals actively supporting insurgents. “There was no innocent person there.

Anybody in that location knew what they were doing,” Musa said.

The airstrike has sparked outrage and scrutiny, with rights groups and residents demanding accountability.

Amnesty International condemned the strike, saying it was an unlawful use of deadly force and showed the Nigerian military’s disregard for civilian lives.

The Nigerian government has expressed regret for civilian casualties but maintains that the operation was intelligence-led and targeted terrorists.

The incident highlights the challenges facing Nigeria’s military in its counterinsurgency operations, where civilian areas are often located near suspected militant strongholds.

Mutharika hails Old Mutual’s planned investments in tourism, infrastructure

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-President Peter Mutharika has commended Old Mutual Malawi for its commitment to investing in key sectors, including road infrastructure and tourism.

Speaking at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre on Wednesday following a meeting with an Old Mutual delegation led by Group Chief Executive Officer Tavona Biza, President Mutharika said the discussions focused on policy frameworks and the strategic direction of the partnership between government and the financial services group.

The President emphasised the importance of the private sector’s role in national development, describing their involvement as “commendable.”

He said strong collaboration between government and private players is essential to accelerate growth and deliver services that improve the lives of Malawians.

President Mutharika reaffirmed that his administration is open to Public-Private Partnerships and encouraged other investors to explore opportunities in Malawi.

He cited the conducive environment his government has established to ensure mutual benefits for both investors and the country.

“Government alone cannot do everything. We need partners who are willing to invest in productive sectors that create jobs and build our economy. Old Mutual’s decision to invest is a vote of confidence in Malawi,” Mutharika said.

In response, Old Mutual Group CEO Tavona Biza confirmed that the financial giant is prepared to begin its investments in the tourism and infrastructure sectors. He said Old Mutual sees long-term value in Malawi and is ready to align its investment strategy with national development priorities.

Biza noted that the company is particularly interested in infrastructure projects that unlock economic potential, including road networks that support trade and tourism facilities that can boost foreign exchange earnings.

The meeting at Sanjika Palace forms part of ongoing engagements between the President and private sector leaders aimed at mobilising investment and strengthening economic partnerships.

President Mutharika said his government will continue to streamline policies and improve the ease of doing business to attract more capital into critical sectors.

He called on local and international investors to take advantage of the opportunities available.

Old Mutual is one of the largest financial services groups operating in Malawi, with interests in insurance, investment, and banking. Its move into infrastructure and tourism signals a broadening of its portfolio in the country.

Malawi Court dismisses domestic workers plea for pension inclusion

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Constitutional Court sitting as a division of the High Court in Blantyre on Thursday dismissed a case challenging the exclusion of domestic workers from Malawi’s mandatory pension scheme, ruling that the decision by the Minister of Finance Joseph Mwanamveka was constitutional.

In a judgment delivered by Justices Jack N’riva, Chimwemwe Kamowa, and Allan Muhome, the court held that provisions under the Employment Act and the Pension Act do not infringe on constitutional rights.

The judges found that the exemption is justified due to the informal nature of domestic work, citing factors such as administrative feasibility, financial constraints, compliance challenges, and the need for gradual implementation of pension reforms.

The court further ruled that Mwanamveka acted within legal powers in exempting domestic workers under the Pension Act, agreeing with submissions made by Chrispine Kalusa from the Attorney General’s Chambers.

It also determined that the Domestic and Vulnerable Workers Association (DOVWA) lacked sufficient legal standing to institute the case.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of domestic workers led by Eliza Steven, had argued that their exclusion from the scheme denied them access to pensions, formal employment contracts, and broader social protection.

However, the court dismissed claims of discrimination and ordered each party to bear its own costs.

EFF leader Julius Malema escapes prison, appeal keeps him out for now

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PRETORIA-(MaraviPost)-Economic Freedom Fighters President Julius Malema has escaped prison after he was sentenced to a cumulative prison term after Judge Twanet Olivier handed down punishment on three counts in court on Thursday.

In her ruling, Judge Olivier sentenced Malema to five years imprisonment on count one, two years imprisonment on count two, and on count three a fine of R20,000 or six months imprisonment in default of payment.

The sentences follow a trial whose details were not immediately made public in the court’s sentencing remarks.

The charges and factual background of each count were not elaborated during the brief delivery of the sentence.

Malema’s legal team moved swiftly after the sentence was pronounced.

His lawyers launched an appeal before he could be taken into custody.

Under South African criminal procedure, the noting of an appeal against a conviction and sentence generally suspends the execution of the sentence pending the outcome of the appeal, unless the court directs otherwise.

As a result, the EFF leader will remain out of prison for now until the appeal is heard and determined by a higher court.

The court did not set bail conditions in the sentencing sitting because the appeal was noted immediately, effectively staying the custodial sentences.

There was a heavy security presence outside court as EFF supporters gathered to hear the outcome.

Party officials urged calm after the sentence and said the legal team was confident in the grounds of appeal.

“The appeal process is part of the law and we will pursue it to the fullest. The President of the EFF will continue with his duties while the legal process runs its course,” an EFF spokesperson said outside court.

The National Prosecuting Authority welcomed the sentence but noted that the appeal was expected.

“The court has spoken on the evidence before it. We will respond to the appeal in due course,” a prosecution representative said.

Legal analysts say the appeal could take several months depending on the court roll and the preparation of the record.

The appellate court will review whether the trial court misdirected itself on conviction, on sentence, or both.

Until that process concludes, the sentences of five years and two years imprisonment will not be executed, and the R20,000 fine or six months alternative on count three is likewise stayed.

Malema did not address the media after the proceedings. He left court with his legal team and senior EFF leaders.

The ruling marks the most serious legal setback for the EFF leader since the party was formed in 2013.

The EFF has built its brand on militant opposition to corruption and what it terms economic exclusion, with Malema as its most visible figure.

Political reaction began filtering in minutes after the sentence.

Opposition parties called for respect for the courts while the ANC said the law must be allowed to take its course.

Civil society groups stressed that the appeal process is a constitutional right and should be respected by all sides.

The High Court will now transmit the record to the appellate division.

A date for the hearing of the appeal has not yet been set.

Until then, Julius Malema remains free, the EFF’s parliamentary and political programme continues, and the legal battle over the three counts moves to the next stage.