Former South African president Jacob Zuma returned to the High Court here on Thursday for a pre-trial hearing in a corruption case that has spanned nearly two decades. He appeared alongside representatives from French arms manufacturer Thales, a co-accused in the matter.
The hearing addressed ongoing legal maneuvers that have consistently delayed the start of the actual trial. Prosecutors informed the judge that such tactics have collectively postponed proceedings for 18 years, emphasizing that every prior attempt to permanently block the trial has ultimately been dismissed by higher courts.
Zuma faces 18 charges, including corruption, fraud, and money laundering. The charges stem from allegations that he received more than 700 illegal payments connected to the country’s multi-billion dollar 1999 arms procurement deal. The former president has consistently denied all accusations, labeling the prosecution a “politically motivated witch hunt.”
In court, Zuma’s legal team renewed its challenge to the impartiality of lead prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer. The defense also argued that the deaths of two key former Thales executives have impaired their ability to construct a proper defense, a point contested by the state.
The arms deal trial is just one front in Zuma’s complex legal battles. Separately, he is contesting a court ruling ordering him to repay $1.6 million in state-funded legal fees that covered his corruption defense. Zuma has appealed that judgment, maintaining he is not liable for the sum.
Zuma’s recent history includes a 2021 prison sentence for contempt of court, after he refused to testify before the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, commonly known as the Zondo Commission.
A spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stated outside court that the state is prepared to proceed to trial and will oppose any further attempts at delay. A spokesperson for Thales declined to comment on the ongoing litigation.
The case was adjourned, with further procedural hearings expected before a trial date can be set, continuing a legal saga that has gripped South Africa for a generation.