Zuma trust: We are tired of blatant media bias

The Friends of Jacob Zuma Trust is angered by what it calls sensationalising of the multimillion-rand defamation claims that the former deputy president is launching against several media groups, a statement said on Wednesday.

“We are tired of the blatant media bias against our friend, Jacob Zuma,” a statement read. “In a daily newspaper this morning, two individuals are quoted as not having had knowledge of Mr Zuma’s intention to claim damages.

“It is outrageous of any newspaper to quote two people who were not mandated to make comments on our behalf,” said the statement, attributed to Zobaphi Sithole, chairperson of the Gauteng branch of the trust.

“Members of the trust are angered by the media sensationalising the defamation claims and once again manufacturing a perception of a split in the Zuma camp,” a statement said.

The trust said it had been informed of Zuma’s decision to take the action. It supported his appointment of independent people to work on his instruction and they should be allowed to do their work irrespective of their political background.

Former Conservative Party MP advocate Jurg Prinsloo is among those handling the case for Zuma, as well as documentary maker Liesl Gottert.

Prinsloo defended right-wingers Clive Derby-Lewis and Janus Walusz, who killed South African Communist Party leader Chris Hani.

“These people are experts in their respective fields and they should be allowed to work and get paid for their work, as any other professional is entitled to do—regardless of their political background.”

The defamation suits reportedly include cartoons, songs and columns published while Zuma was on trial for the rape of an HIV-positive woman.

He was found not guilty.

Later in July, Zuma returns to court for a corruption and fraud trial stemming from a judgment against his financial adviser Schabir Shaik.—Sapa