The Durban Magistrate’s Court will be closed between 9am and 11am on Tuesday next week until the corruption case against former deputy president Jacob Zuma is completed.
Court manager Cyril Mncwabe said: ”It’s because of the security arrangements we’re trying to put in place, because we battled with the crowd previously.”
Mncwabe insisted that Zuma is not getting ”preferential treatment” and that the magistrates have agreed to make up for the lost time.
He said only the court entrance in Stanger Street will be open and police will only allow those with security clearances to enter the building and courtroom 12 where Zuma is to appear.
Mncwabe said notices explaining the delay in Tuesday proceedings have been put up all over the court to inform the public.
Only Zuma’s family, colleagues and other dignitaries will be allowed inside, depending on the space available.
On Friday, National Prosecutions Authority spokesperson Lucinda Moonieya said: ”Security will be tight.”
Journalists will have to apply for accreditation on Monday to enter the courtroom.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Superintendent Phindile Radebe said police will only be able to reveal some of their security plans on Monday morning when they are finalised.
On Thursday, the African National Congress alliance in KwaZulu-Natal said it will hold an all-night vigil outside the court, and Zuma’s supporters will stay there until after his appearance, when he will address them.
ANC provincial secretary Senzo Mchunu said a minimum of 1 000 people from around the country are expected to turn up for the hearing.
Zuma was charged with corruption after his long-time friend and financial adviser Schabir Shaik was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment for fraud and corruption linked to his dealings with Zuma earlier this year.
On Thursday, Zuma and his attorney Mike Hulley lodged an application in the Durban High Court for the return of items seized by the Scorpions during the recent raids on Zuma’s homes and Hulley’s office. — Sapa