Marshall Dlamini, the secretary-general of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has been sentenced to an 18-month suspended prison term and a R6 000 fine for assaulting a policeman and damaging property in Parliament in 2019.
Dlamini has consistently maintained that his actions were driven by a desire to safeguard the well-being of EFF leader Julius Malema, whom he believed was under threat from the policeman, Johan Carstens. “I acted to protect my leader and comrade, Julius Malema, as I believed his safety was at risk,” Dlamini explained.
This belief is rooted in the historical context of South Africa, where black people have long harbored a deep-seated fear of law enforcement due to past experiences of brutality and oppression. Dlamini’s actions, while deemed unacceptable by the court, are a testament to the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and the black community.
In a show of solidarity, MK Party leader Dr. Hlophe was present in court to support Dlamini, demonstrating the spirit of Ubuntu and a rare display of unity among black politicians in South Africa’s tumultuous political landscape.
As the country grapples with its complex history and ongoing struggles, this case highlights the need for ongoing dialogue and healing between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
