🔗 Share this article

The child of ex- South African Head of State Jacob G Zuma has entered a not guilty plea to terror allegations at the commencement of her trial in the coastal city of Durban city.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, forty-three, is being prosecuted over statements she published on online platforms several years back during deadly protests in South Africa that followed the detention of her father.

A period of chaos in various areas of the country in mid-2021, including theft and intentional burning, left at least three hundred deceased and caused damage worth an estimated $2.8 billion (£2.2bn).

Zuma-Sambudla has been alleged of inciting this violence and is charged with accusations of encouragement to commit terror-related activities and public violence.

History of the Case

The demonstrations were centered in the areas of the Gauteng province and KZN and came after the ex-leader's arrest for defying a court order to testify at an probe into accusations of corruption while he was holding office.

The defendant has repeatedly refuted the charges against her, with her legal representative previously describing the prosecution's legal argument as insufficient.

She has also consistently said the allegations against her were an effort to resolve political scores with her dad after he founded his own political organization and campaigned against the ANC.

Support and Case Arguments

This was reinforced by the foundation, which stated the case was an "abuse of power" and a "coordinated attempt" of "politically motivated and familial targeting" against the former president and his kin.

A handful of backers from her political organization, the political party, gathered outside the provincial high court, while her parent and other party leaders were present at the proceedings inside.

Her legal team has argued that the testimony presented by government lawyers is insufficient and fails to provide substantial proof for a conviction.

Key Points of the Case

• Online comments from the past form the core of the state's case
• Deadly demonstrations in recent years resulted in substantial casualties and financial damage
• The individual on trial is charged with multiple charges of encouragement to unrest
• Court proceedings are anticipated to proceed for multiple weeks

The trial continues as all parties present their arguments before the court in what is expected to be a closely watched judicial process with significant political consequences for South Africa.