The precinct around the Pietermaritzburg high court was abuzz with police on Monday morning before the start of former president Jacob Zuma's corruption trial, with his children Duduzane and Duduzile demonstrating their support.
Zuma trial postponed to 26 May as defence objects to state prosecutor Downer
17 May 2021
The fraud and corruption trial of former president Jacob Zuma was postponed on Monday until 26 May to allow his lawyers to formally tender a plea that advocate Billy Downer has no delegation to prosecute the long-running matter. (Nic Bothma / AFP - Getty Images)
Downer informed Judge Piet Koen that he was warned by Zuma’s advocate, Thabani Masuku, last week that the defence team would bring this plea in terms of section 106 (1)(h) of the Criminal Procedure Act.
But Zuma’s team has yet to furnish the state with an affidavit setting out its full reasons for seeking Dower’s removal.
Arms deal graft trial against South African ex-president Zuma adjourned to May 26
South Africa s former President Jacob Zuma, who is facing fraud and corruption charges, speaks with a member of his legal team at the High Court in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, May 17, 2021. REUTERS/Rogan Ward reuters tickers
This content was published on May 17, 2021 - 12:58
May 17, 2021 - 12:58
CAPE TOWN (Reuters) - A corruption case against former South African President Jacob Zuma and French company Thales related to a $2 billion arms deal was adjourned on Monday to May 26, and his defence lawyer said Zuma would plead not guilty when the hearing finally starts.
LIVE FEED: Former president Jacob Zuma s corruption trial
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Cape Town - Former President Jacob Zuma is expected back in the Pietermaritzburg High Court today, although it is unclear if the case will proceed as the former head of state parted ways with his legal team last month with his new attorneys not known yet.
As he is expected back in the dock on Monday, Zuma and his allies have remained mum on the former president’s next step despite him and his legal team of advocate Muzi Sikhakhane, Eric Mabuza SC, advocate Thabani Masuku SC, Rudolph Baloyi and advocate Mpilo Sikhakhane having parted ways.