News
The Court Sends the Bill: Zuma Ordered to Repay R28.9 Million
A Costly Verdict for the Former President
Former president Jacob Zuma has been ordered by the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria to repay R28.9 million to the State, ending a long-running dispute over who should foot the bill for his personal legal battles.
Judge Anthony Millar handed down the ruling on Wednesday, instructing Zuma to reimburse the State Attorney for the millions spent on his private defence over several years. The total amount, R28,960,774.34, must be paid with interest calculated from 25 January 2024 until the full sum is settled.
What Happens If Zuma Does Not Pay
The court went further, setting clear enforcement steps should Zuma fail to comply within 60 days. If he doesn’t pay, the State Attorney is authorised to issue a writ of execution, essentially the legal green light to attach and sell his movable or immovable assets to recover the debt.
This could include portions of Zuma’s presidential pension, subject to further court approval. The ruling also compels the State Attorney to file progress affidavits every three months, updating the court on the status of repayment until the debt is fully cleared.
In addition, Zuma has been ordered to cover the legal costs associated with this case.
A Long Road to Accountability
This judgment marks a significant moment in South Africa’s long-running debate about accountability and public money. The legal fees in question relate to Zuma’s numerous private cases dating back years, including those tied to corruption allegations and his time in office.
Successive governments have faced pressure to recoup taxpayer funds used to defend him. The State Attorney’s office pursued this claim after earlier court rulings affirmed that the public should not bear the cost of his personal legal woes.
What It Means Going Forward
For Zuma, the order adds another layer to his growing list of financial and legal challenges. For the State, it sends a message about transparency in public spending, reaffirming that no individual, however powerful, is exempt from fiscal accountability.
While Zuma retains the right to appeal, Wednesday’s ruling represents a decisive step in the State’s efforts to close a chapter that has spanned more than a decade and cost South African taxpayers millions.
Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikT
For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com
Source: IOL
Featured Image: CNN
