A fresh legal confrontation is unfolding between Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema and media personality Ngizwe Mchunu, with Malema now seeking a six-month prison sentence over what he claims are repeated violations of a court order.
The latest application, filed urgently in the Gauteng High Court, marks another chapter in a legal dispute that has already resulted in a contempt of court ruling against Mchunu.
Malema argues that despite previous court directives prohibiting certain statements about him, Mchunu has continued to make remarks that allegedly breach those orders.
Previous Contempt Ruling Failed to End Dispute
The renewed court action follows a recent judgment in which Mchunu was found guilty of contempt of court.
Although the court imposed a suspended prison sentence and issued a warrant for his arrest, he avoided immediate incarceration after apologising publicly and retracting the statements that led to the ruling.
At the time, Mchunu also acknowledged the authority of the court and committed himself to complying with future judicial directives.
His apology was viewed as a step toward resolving the matter and avoiding further penalties.
Malema Claims Court Orders Were Ignored
According to documents submitted to the court, Malema maintains that Mchunu has failed to honour his commitment and has once again made comments that contravene existing court orders.
As a result, the EFF leader is asking the court to impose tougher consequences.
In his application, Malema contends that previous sanctions have not been effective in preventing further violations and therefore a direct custodial sentence is warranted.
The request specifically calls for a six-month prison term without the option of paying a fine.
High Court Hearing Scheduled for June
The matter is expected to return before the Gauteng High Court on 17 June, where judges will consider Malema’s application.
Mchunu has been granted the opportunity to oppose the request and provide reasons why the court should reject the proposed sentence.
Should he fail to file a response or appear before the court, proceedings may continue in his absence.
Another Courtroom Clash Looms
The upcoming hearing could prove decisive in determining whether the court believes Mchunu has again disregarded judicial instructions after his earlier apology and contempt ruling.
With Malema insisting that further breaches have occurred and Mchunu facing the prospect of a prison sentence, the dispute appears far from over.
The case is now set for another high-profile courtroom showdown that could carry significant legal consequences for Mchunu if the court finds merit in Malema’s claims.
