The African National Congress has reaffirmed its support for its embattled deputy president, Jacob Zuma, and has called on its members and structures to back him too.
Zuma is expected to make his second appearance in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday on two charges of corruption, following the conviction and sentencing of his friend and former financial adviser Schabir Shaik earlier this year.
The charges against Shaik were connected to his dealings with Zuma, and the former deputy president was subsequently charged with corruption and sacked by President Thabo Mbeki.
”On the eve of the court appearance of ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma tomorrow [Tuesday], the African National Congress reaffirms its support for deputy president Zuma during this difficult and challenging period,” the party said in a statement on Monday.
The ANC confirmed its principled support for the right of all citizens to be presumed innocent until found otherwise, and the right of all accused to a fair trial.
In line with positions taken at the ANC national general council in July and the approach of the ANC national executive committee in September, the party also reaffirmed its commitment to respect, uphold and defend the rule of law.
”The ANC calls on all structures, members and supporters to express their support for the ANC deputy president in a dignified manner, consistent with the values and principles of the ANC,” it said.
The Durban Magistrate’s Court will be closed between 9am and 11am on Tuesday until the corruption case against Zuma is completed.
Court manager Cyril Mncwabe said on Friday: ”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.
Only Zuma’s family, colleagues and other dignitaries will be allowed inside, depending on the space available.
Also on Friday, National Prosecutions Authority spokesperson Lucinda Moonieya said: ”Security will be tight.” — Sapa