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Delays in Zuma corruption trial exposed – Nearly 20 years lost, state reveals

Published

11 months ago

May 30, 2023

New papers filed by the State in the Pietermaritzburg High Court have shed light on the staggering extent of delays in the arms deal corruption case, commonly known as the “Zuma corruption trial,” revealing that these delays have accumulated to a shocking 239 months, nearly 20 years.

According to Eyewitness News, the State’s response comes as former president Jacob Zuma filed a second application seeking the removal of lead prosecutor Billy Downer. Zuma is the primary accused in the case, and Downer, in his answering affidavit, referred to Zuma’s continuous employment of what he called a “Stalingrad tactic.”

Also read: Jacob Zuma’s Arms Deal Corruption Case Postponed Again – Find Out When Inside!

Downer highlighted Zuma’s failed attempts over the past two decades to quash the case through various legal avenues, including court bids, complaints to the public protector, and appeals to the National Prosecuting Authority. These attempts resulted in significant delays, with the total time amounting to 239 months and ongoing, as the current application represents another aspect of Zuma’s strategy.

While the State opposes Zuma’s application, it has also submitted a conditional counter-application, urging the court to intervene and end the unreasonable delays caused by the former president.

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