Amid South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's bid to be re-elected as the Chief of the African National Congress, the leader's don't seem to end. Just days after Ramaphosa survived the impeachment scare the ANC leader received jolt from former President Zuma.

Zuma suing Ramaphosa over leaked medical reports, says 'Ramaphosa neglected his duties as President'

South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal ruled on Monday that the ex-president Jacob Zuma's medical release on parole was "unlawful" and he should return to prison to finish his sentence for contempt of court.

South African court rules ex-President Zuma’s medical parole was unlawful

Former South African president Jacob Zuma could return to prison after the country's Supreme Court canceled his medical parole calling it unlawful and ordering him to return to jail.

WION Dispatch: South African court orders Zuma back to jail

South African politics is once again heating up with former President Jacob Zuma gunning for his successor and the present President Cyril Ramaphosa. Zuma is facing bribery charges racketeering and money laundering.

WION Dispatch: South African President calls for national effort against corruption

South Africa: Jacob Zuma accuses Ramaphosa of concealing multi-million-dollar cash heist

Jacob Zuma, the former president of South Africa spoke out against a judicial report on the corruption during his time in office. He called it unlawful and full of gossip.

South Africa's former president Zuma slams Graft report as gossip

There seems to be no end to Jacob Zuma's legal votes. A new judicial inquiry report accuses the former South African President of stopping a probe into the Gupta brothers, it says that Zuma barred South Africa's spy agencies from investigating the Guptas.

Enquiry report on Zuma submitted amid reports of him stopping probe into Gupta brothers

Report: Former South African President Jacob Zuma stopped probe into Gupta brothers

It seems like there's no end to legal wars for former South African President Jacob Zuma. In the latest, Zuma has now been accused of systemic and unlawful efforts to give business allies control of billions of dollars worth of state assets during his stay in power from 2009 to 2018.

Zuma's corruption enquiry: Former South African President under scrutiny

South African president Cyril Ramaphosa has received the first part of the inquiry report into state capture that looks into wrongdoings under president Jacob Zuma's administration.

SA President Ramaphosa receives initial inquiry report into wrongdoings under Zuma's administration

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has received the first part of the report of the inquiry into allegations of corruption during his predecessor Jacob Zuma’s rule.

South Africa: Former president Zuma accused of plundering state coffers

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence that has rocked the country's biggest economic provinces in recent days after the imprisonment of former president Jacob Zuma.

He has also given a strong warning to the offenders, amid mounting public outrage over the violence.&nbsp;

South Africa’s two provinces, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, witnessed a series of violent protests over the weekend. 
 
The protest, which was initially started by supporters of former President Zuma, soon turned into criminal activity. 
 
According to police, 62 people had been arrested until Sunday morning in both the provinces for vandalism, looting, blocking roads. 
 
President Ramaphosa on Sunday sent out a stern message to the violent protestors. 
 
“It is a matter of concern to all South Africans that some of these acts of violence are based on ethnic mobilisation.While there are those who may be hurt and angry at this moment, there can never be any justification for such violent, destructive and disruptive actions.This must be condemned by all South Africans at all costs as we are a nation committed to non-racialism and non-tribalism that is underpinned by the diversity and unity of all the people of South Africa, whatever their language, culture, religious beliefs and race,” the president said. 
 
"Let us be clear, as a nation, that we will not tolerate acts of criminality.Those who are involved in acts of violence will be arrested and prosecuted.Those found guilty of breaking the lockdown regulations will receive the stipulated penalty. This will be done without fear or favour, "Ramaphosa said. 
 
The President also cautioned those attempting to create confusion by sharing false images and videos, often from events that took place many years ago. 
 
"I ask that you think carefully before sharing anything on social media," he said. 
 
While President Ramaphosa was addressing the nation, looting continued in various areas of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. 
 
The Constitutional Court is expected to hear the former President's application for a rescission of his 15-month prison sentence on Monday.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence that has rocked the country's biggest economic provinces in recent days after the imprisonment of former president Jacob Zuma.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the violence that has rocked the country's biggest economic provinces in recent days after the imprisonment of former president Jacob Zuma. He has also given a strong warning to the offenders, amid mounting public outrage over the violence. South Africa’s two provinces, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, witnessed a series of violent protests over the weekend. The protest, which was initially started by supporters of former President Zuma, soon turned into criminal activity. According to police, 62 people had been arrested until Sunday morning in both the provinces for vandalism, looting, blocking roads. President Ramaphosa on Sunday sent out a stern message to the violent protestors. “It is a matter of concern to all South Africans that some of these acts of violence are based on ethnic mobilisation.While there are those who may be hurt and angry at this moment, there can never be any justification for such violent, destructive and disruptive actions.This must be condemned by all South Africans at all costs as we are a nation committed to non-racialism and non-tribalism that is underpinned by the diversity and unity of all the people of South Africa, whatever their language, culture, religious beliefs and race,” the president said. "Let us be clear, as a nation, that we will not tolerate acts of criminality.Those who are involved in acts of violence will be arrested and prosecuted.Those found guilty of breaking the lockdown regulations will receive the stipulated penalty. This will be done without fear or favour, "Ramaphosa said. The President also cautioned those attempting to create confusion by sharing false images and videos, often from events that took place many years ago. "I ask that you think carefully before sharing anything on social media," he said. While President Ramaphosa was addressing the nation, looting continued in various areas of KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng. The Constitutional Court is expected to hear the former President's application for a rescission of his 15-month prison sentence on Monday.

South Africa violence: President Ramaphosa warns protesters of stern action

Acts of violence by former South Africa president Jacob Zuma suporters spread to country's main economic hub on Sunday. Shops were looted &nbsp;a section of the M2 highway was closed and stick-wielding protesters marched through the streets of Johannesburg.

Reuters reported saw a column of protesters carrying stick, golf clubs and marching through Johannesburg's Central Business District, where liquor stores had been burgled and shop windows smashed.

Jacob Zuma the former president of South Africa is currently in jail serving his 15-month jail term handed to him for contempt of court.

Zuma's sentencing and subsequent imprisonment have been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's ability to enforce the law fairly -- even against powerful politicians -- 27 years after the African National Congress (ANC) ousted the white minority rulers to usher in democracy.

But his incarceration has angered Zuma's supporters and exposed rifts within the ANC.

Police said criminals were taking advantage of the anger to steal and cause damage. National intelligence body NatJOINTS warned that those inciting violence could face criminal charges.

Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry that is investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power until 2018.

He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry, which was was set up in his final weeks in office.

Zuma has challenged his sentence in the constitutional court, partly on the grounds of his alleged frail health and the risk of catching COVID-19. That challenge will be heard on Monday (July 12).

(With inputs from agencies)

Acts of violence by former South Africa president Jacob Zuma suporters spread to country's main economic hub on Sunday. Shops were looted a section of the M2 highway was closed and stick-wielding protesters marched through the streets of Johannesburg.

Acts of violence by former South Africa president Jacob Zuma suporters spread to country's main economic hub on Sunday. Shops were looted a section of the M2 highway was closed and stick-wielding protesters marched through the streets of Johannesburg. Reuters reported saw a column of protesters carrying stick, golf clubs and marching through Johannesburg's Central Business District, where liquor stores had been burgled and shop windows smashed. Jacob Zuma the former president of South Africa is currently in jail serving his 15-month jail term handed to him for contempt of court. Zuma's sentencing and subsequent imprisonment have been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's ability to enforce the law fairly -- even against powerful politicians -- 27 years after the African National Congress (ANC) ousted the white minority rulers to usher in democracy. But his incarceration has angered Zuma's supporters and exposed rifts within the ANC. Police said criminals were taking advantage of the anger to steal and cause damage. National intelligence body NatJOINTS warned that those inciting violence could face criminal charges. Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry that is investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power until 2018. He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry, which was was set up in his final weeks in office. Zuma has challenged his sentence in the constitutional court, partly on the grounds of his alleged frail health and the risk of catching COVID-19. That challenge will be heard on Monday (July 12). (With inputs from agencies)

Jacob Zuma jailing: Violence spreads to South Africa's economic hub

South Africa’s former President Jacob Zuma will be eligible for parole once he has served a quarter of his prison sentence, minister of justice and correctional services Ronald Lamola confirmed on Thursday.&nbsp;

“We want to assure South Africans former president will be afforded dignity throughout his time of incarceration,” Lamola said in a media briefing outside Estcourt Correctional centre.&nbsp;

Zuma was taken into custody by the South African police just before midnight on Wednesday to serve his 15-month jail term as ordered by the Constitutional Court.

Presently, Zuma is housed in the hospital section of the correctional center for an assessment, the minister said.&nbsp;

“As a precaution and in line with our COVID-19 measures, the former president will be placed in isolation for a period of 14 days. Furthermore, he will be assessed by our medical team in conjunction with the South African health military service and this will determine the conditions of his incarceration,” Lamola said.&nbsp;

The minister added that this is not a moment of celebration or triumphalism, it is a moment of restraint and to be human.&nbsp;

“All of these systems are in place to ensure that incarceration is done in a manner which is not retributive, but humane,” he said.&nbsp;

The minister also assured South Africans that former President Zuma will be afforded dignity throughout his term of incarceration.&nbsp;

Asked if the minister had seen the former President, Lamola said, “Yes, I have seen him. He is in very good spirits. He has taken his breakfast. He has taken his medication...I have also told him that I am going tell the nation that he is here in this facility and he said it's important that this country must know. He looks well and fine.”

On the question of what will happen with the Pietermaritzburg High Court ruling that is due on Friday, Lamola said, “we will cross the bridge when we reach there. We all don’t know what the judgment will be. We will await the judgment.”

On Thursday, the Pietermaritzburg High Court had heard former Presidents request for a stay of his 15-month prison sentence pending the outcome of his application in the Constitutional Court, the judgment was reserved for Friday.&nbsp;

South Africa’s former President Jacob Zuma will be eligible for parole once he has served a quarter of his prison sentence, minister of justice and correctional services Ronald Lamola confirmed on Thursday.

South Africa’s former President Jacob Zuma will be eligible for parole once he has served a quarter of his prison sentence, minister of justice and correctional services Ronald Lamola confirmed on Thursday. “We want to assure South Africans former president will be afforded dignity throughout his time of incarceration,” Lamola said in a media briefing outside Estcourt Correctional centre. Zuma was taken into custody by the South African police just before midnight on Wednesday to serve his 15-month jail term as ordered by the Constitutional Court. Presently, Zuma is housed in the hospital section of the correctional center for an assessment, the minister said. “As a precaution and in line with our COVID-19 measures, the former president will be placed in isolation for a period of 14 days. Furthermore, he will be assessed by our medical team in conjunction with the South African health military service and this will determine the conditions of his incarceration,” Lamola said. The minister added that this is not a moment of celebration or triumphalism, it is a moment of restraint and to be human. “All of these systems are in place to ensure that incarceration is done in a manner which is not retributive, but humane,” he said. The minister also assured South Africans that former President Zuma will be afforded dignity throughout his term of incarceration. Asked if the minister had seen the former President, Lamola said, “Yes, I have seen him. He is in very good spirits. He has taken his breakfast. He has taken his medication...I have also told him that I am going tell the nation that he is here in this facility and he said it's important that this country must know. He looks well and fine.” On the question of what will happen with the Pietermaritzburg High Court ruling that is due on Friday, Lamola said, “we will cross the bridge when we reach there. We all don’t know what the judgment will be. We will await the judgment.” On Thursday, the Pietermaritzburg High Court had heard former Presidents request for a stay of his 15-month prison sentence pending the outcome of his application in the Constitutional Court, the judgment was reserved for Friday.

Former South African President Jacob Zuma begins jail term

Former president Jacob Zuma addressed countrymen&nbsp;on Sunday evening from his Nkandla home on matters related to the Constitutional Court judgment against him.&nbsp;

“No honest person can accuse me of being an enemy of the rule of law, consistent with this point, I am pursuing peaceful and constitutional methods to deal with this situation by approaching the courts, again," Zuma said adding, “All I am asking is fairness and consistency.”&nbsp;

The former President said he is not asking for sympathy but justice.&nbsp;

Zuma&nbsp;added, “I acknowledge and appreciate the Constitutional Court for its recent announcement where it indicated on the 12th of July,&nbsp;it will give me audience.”&nbsp;

Last week,&nbsp;the apex court sentenced Zuma to 15-month imprisonment after he was found guilty of contempt of court for failing to appear before the Zondo Commission.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Friday, Zuma and his legal team filed an urgent application to the Constitutional Court to rescind and reconsider its decision and take into account his unstable health and Constitutional Court agreed to hear Zuma’s rescission application.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The former President was&nbsp;supposed&nbsp;to&nbsp;hand himself over to the police on Sunday before midnight.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In his address&nbsp;on&nbsp;Sunday evening, the former President reiterated, "Contrary to the mainstream narrative and propaganda against me, I've never refused not to appear before the State Capture Commission." He said if Zondo had recused himself and allowed Zuma's submission to&nbsp;'be made to somebody neutral'&nbsp;the nation would have heard Zuma's version on&nbsp;'all the unsubstantiated allegations against me’.&nbsp;

“My age and health condition and any other mitigating circumstances were not considered when the imprisonment was decided,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Even murderers, serial killers, bank&nbsp;robbers&nbsp;and child molesters are granted an opportunity to give mitigation after conviction but before sentencing. In my case,&nbsp;a strange procedure was adopted by asking me for mitigation before I was found guilty of any crime,” he said,&nbsp;in his address.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Sending me to jail during the height of a pandemic at my age is the same as sentencing me to death," Zuma said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Zuma's legal team is expected to argue in the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Tuesday that his sentence must be stayed pending the outcome of his rescission application.&nbsp;

Former president Jacob Zuma addressed countrymen on Sunday evening from his Nkandla home on matters related to the Constitutional Court judgment against him. “No honest person can accuse me of being an enemy of the rule of law, consistent with this point, I am pursuing peaceful and constitutional methods to deal with this situation by approaching the courts, again," Zuma said adding, “All I am asking is fairness and consistency.

Former president Jacob Zuma addressed countrymen on Sunday evening from his Nkandla home on matters related to the Constitutional Court judgment against him. “No honest person can accuse me of being an enemy of the rule of law, consistent with this point, I am pursuing peaceful and constitutional methods to deal with this situation by approaching the courts, again," Zuma said adding, “All I am asking is fairness and consistency.” The former President said he is not asking for sympathy but justice. Zuma added, “I acknowledge and appreciate the Constitutional Court for its recent announcement where it indicated on the 12th of July, it will give me audience.” Last week, the apex court sentenced Zuma to 15-month imprisonment after he was found guilty of contempt of court for failing to appear before the Zondo Commission. On Friday, Zuma and his legal team filed an urgent application to the Constitutional Court to rescind and reconsider its decision and take into account his unstable health and Constitutional Court agreed to hear Zuma’s rescission application. The former President was supposed to hand himself over to the police on Sunday before midnight. In his address on Sunday evening, the former President reiterated, "Contrary to the mainstream narrative and propaganda against me, I've never refused not to appear before the State Capture Commission." He said if Zondo had recused himself and allowed Zuma's submission to 'be made to somebody neutral' the nation would have heard Zuma's version on 'all the unsubstantiated allegations against me’. “My age and health condition and any other mitigating circumstances were not considered when the imprisonment was decided,” he said. “Even murderers, serial killers, bank robbers and child molesters are granted an opportunity to give mitigation after conviction but before sentencing. In my case, a strange procedure was adopted by asking me for mitigation before I was found guilty of any crime,” he said, in his address. "Sending me to jail during the height of a pandemic at my age is the same as sentencing me to death," Zuma said. Zuma's legal team is expected to argue in the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Tuesday that his sentence must be stayed pending the outcome of his rescission application.

Zuma: No honest person can accuse me of being an enemy of rule of law 

In a bid to win back power in the upcoming October elections, South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa is cracking down on corruption in his own party and in the process, he is also tightening his grip over the ANC.

The African National Congress (ANC), has suspended Ace Magashule, secretary-general of the ruling party of South Africa.

An influential member of ANC, Magashule is a key opponent of President Cyril Ramaphosa and a loyalist of the former president Jacob Zuma, who lost power after the Gupta corruption scandal exploded four years ago. 
 
Magashule faces serious charges of money laundering and fraud. According to reports, he was part of a "premier league" of provincial leaders who backed Zuma through his many scandals. Even after Zuma’s exit from power in 2018, Magashule managed to survive politically.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-years-after-gupta-corruption-scandal-ramaphosa-cleans-up-his-party-383334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

President Ramasposa himself went before investigators and testified against his own party members. He said that over the past decade, a systematic looting of South Africa was allowed by the ANC under Zuma's reign. This was the most direct acknowledgement ever of state capture by the Gupta brothers. 
 
According to the South African government's estimates, more than 35 billion dollars were stolen from its coffers. Most of this&nbsp;due to the alleged corruption by Zuma and the Guptas. 
 
After Zuma's unceremonious exit, the ANC faced widespread public anger and suffered a major electoral defeat in the 2016 municipal polls. losing power in key cities like Johannesburg and Tshwane.

"State capture took place under our watch as the governing party. It involved some members and leaders of our organisation and it found fertile ground in the divisions, in the weaknesses and the tendencies that have developed in our organisation since 1994.", said Ramaphosa, who is also president of ANC. &nbsp;

"But we all acknowledge that the organisation could and should have done more to prevent the abuse of power”, he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a bid to win back power in the upcoming October elections, South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa is cracking down on corruption in his own party and in the process, he is also tightening his grip over the ANC.

In a bid to win back power in the upcoming October elections, South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa is cracking down on corruption in his own party and in the process, he is also tightening his grip over the ANC. The African National Congress (ANC), has suspended Ace Magashule, secretary-general of the ruling party of South Africa. An influential member of ANC, Magashule is a key opponent of President Cyril Ramaphosa and a loyalist of the former president Jacob Zuma, who lost power after the Gupta corruption scandal exploded four years ago. Magashule faces serious charges of money laundering and fraud. According to reports, he was part of a "premier league" of provincial leaders who backed Zuma through his many scandals. Even after Zuma’s exit from power in 2018, Magashule managed to survive politically. President Ramasposa himself went before investigators and testified against his own party members. He said that over the past decade, a systematic looting of South Africa was allowed by the ANC under Zuma's reign. This was the most direct acknowledgement ever of state capture by the Gupta brothers. According to the South African government's estimates, more than 35 billion dollars were stolen from its coffers. Most of this due to the alleged corruption by Zuma and the Guptas. After Zuma's unceremonious exit, the ANC faced widespread public anger and suffered a major electoral defeat in the 2016 municipal polls. losing power in key cities like Johannesburg and Tshwane. "State capture took place under our watch as the governing party. It involved some members and leaders of our organisation and it found fertile ground in the divisions, in the weaknesses and the tendencies that have developed in our organisation since 1994.", said Ramaphosa, who is also president of ANC. "But we all acknowledge that the organisation could and should have done more to prevent the abuse of power”, he added.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa targets corruption within own party

South Africans are calling for the government to ban flights carrying passengers from India amid reports that one person tested positive for Covid-19 after travelling to India. However, it is not yet known which variant of the virus they contracted.&nbsp;

“COVID-19 case numbers currently remain extremely low in our hospitals. We can, however, confirm that one patient who had recently travelled from India was treated in isolation for Covid-19 at a hospital in LwaZulu-Natal,” Dr Caroline Masilo, senior clinical adviser and head of infection control of Netcares hospital division told News24.

The new variant B.1.617 is wreaking havoc in India with daily cases rising to 400,000.

Meanwhile, South Africa’s Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize noted concerns raised by the citizens on social media regarding possible importation of the B.1.617 variant circulating in India.&nbsp;

“We wish to reassure citizens that there are no direct flights from India and that all our ports of entry employ stringent containment procedures to minimize the importation of Covid-19. We are currently on high alert to screen passengers and test those who require further assessment,” Mkhize said.&nbsp;

Further, the minister confirmed that it has not detected the B.1.617 variant, as yet in South Africa.

He added that members of the genomics team have intensified the surveillance not only to ensure that variant can be detected quickly but also to understand what the implications are in the context of B.1.351 being the dominant variant in South Africa.&nbsp;

As of May 3, South Africa has recorded total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases at 1.58 million, 54,452 deaths so far along with&nbsp;1.50 million. The total number of vaccines administered is 329,098.&nbsp;

South Africans are calling for the government to ban flights carrying passengers from India amid reports that one person tested positive for Covid-19 after travelling to India.

South Africans are calling for the government to ban flights carrying passengers from India amid reports that one person tested positive for Covid-19 after travelling to India. However, it is not yet known which variant of the virus they contracted. “COVID-19 case numbers currently remain extremely low in our hospitals. We can, however, confirm that one patient who had recently travelled from India was treated in isolation for Covid-19 at a hospital in LwaZulu-Natal,” Dr Caroline Masilo, senior clinical adviser and head of infection control of Netcares hospital division told News24. The new variant B.1.617 is wreaking havoc in India with daily cases rising to 400,000. Meanwhile, South Africa’s Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize noted concerns raised by the citizens on social media regarding possible importation of the B.1.617 variant circulating in India. “We wish to reassure citizens that there are no direct flights from India and that all our ports of entry employ stringent containment procedures to minimize the importation of Covid-19. We are currently on high alert to screen passengers and test those who require further assessment,” Mkhize said. Further, the minister confirmed that it has not detected the B.1.617 variant, as yet in South Africa. He added that members of the genomics team have intensified the surveillance not only to ensure that variant can be detected quickly but also to understand what the implications are in the context of B.1.351 being the dominant variant in South Africa. As of May 3, South Africa has recorded total number of confirmed Covid-19 cases at 1.58 million, 54,452 deaths so far along with 1.50 million. The total number of vaccines administered is 329,098.

South Africans ask government to ban flights carrying passengers from India

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-jacob-zuma-denies-breaking-law-with-business-brothers-236213">Former South African President Jacob Zuma </a>said on Tuesday he had received a death threat after his testimony the previous day to an inquiry on corruption.

Zuma told the inquiry on Monday that he had been the victim of a plot to get rid of him and that he could trace that conspiracy to foreign intelligence services and the apartheid government in the 1990s.&nbsp;

Appearing again on Tuesday, Zuma said his personal assistant received a phone call late on Monday from an unknown caller threatening to kill Zuma and his children.&nbsp;

The country's deputy chief justice, Raymond Zondo, who is overseeing the inquiry, said the threats were unacceptable.

There was no immediate comment from the police.

Zuma, ousted by the governing African National Congress (ANC) in February 2018 and replaced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has consistently denied wrongdoing over his nine years in power.

His appearance at the inquiry caps a dramatic fall from grace for a politician who long dominated the country`s politics.&nbsp;

The inquiry is investigating allegations that Zuma allowed three Gupta brothers, friends of his, to plunder state resources and influence senior government appointments.

Several former officials have told the inquiry that the Guptas were privy to information about senior government appointments.

On Monday Zuma denied that he had done anything unlawful with the Guptas or that he had discussed anything with them that he should not have.&nbsp;

The Gupta brothers, who denied the allegations at the time, left the country around the time that Zuma was ousted.&nbsp;

Former South African President Jacob Zuma said on Tuesday he had received a death threat after his testimony the previous day to an inquiry on corruption. Zuma told the inquiry on Monday that he had been the victim of a plot to get rid of him and that he could trace that conspiracy to foreign intelligence services and the apartheid government in the 1990s.

Former South African President Jacob Zuma said on Tuesday he had received a death threat after his testimony the previous day to an inquiry on corruption. Zuma told the inquiry on Monday that he had been the victim of a plot to get rid of him and that he could trace that conspiracy to foreign intelligence services and the apartheid government in the 1990s. Appearing again on Tuesday, Zuma said his personal assistant received a phone call late on Monday from an unknown caller threatening to kill Zuma and his children. The country's deputy chief justice, Raymond Zondo, who is overseeing the inquiry, said the threats were unacceptable. There was no immediate comment from the police. Zuma, ousted by the governing African National Congress (ANC) in February 2018 and replaced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has consistently denied wrongdoing over his nine years in power. His appearance at the inquiry caps a dramatic fall from grace for a politician who long dominated the country`s politics. The inquiry is investigating allegations that Zuma allowed three Gupta brothers, friends of his, to plunder state resources and influence senior government appointments. Several former officials have told the inquiry that the Guptas were privy to information about senior government appointments. On Monday Zuma denied that he had done anything unlawful with the Guptas or that he had discussed anything with them that he should not have. The Gupta brothers, who denied the allegations at the time, left the country around the time that Zuma was ousted.

South Africa’s Jacob Zuma, back at inquiry, says his life is in danger

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africas-jacob-zuma-to-take-centre-stage-at-graft-inquiry-236058">Former South African president Jacob Zuma</a> told a corruption inquiry on Monday that he had never broken the law with the Gupta family, describing the businessmen at the centre of an influence-peddling scandal as friends.

Zuma also said he was the victim of a conspiracy by enemies who had tried to get rid of him for more than 20 years.

His appearance at the inquiry – set up to test allegations that Zuma allowed cronies to plunder state resources and influence government appointments – marked a dramatic fall from grace for a politician who long dominated the country’s politics.

Referring to the three Gupta brothers, Zuma said, "I never did anything with them unlawfully, they just remained friends. … Never, never did I discuss any matter that does not belong to them".

"They were businesspeople and successful businesspeople," Zuma continued. "I`m not a businessperson, I know nothing about business, I`m a politician, I know something about politics."

Zuma, ousted by the governing African National Congress (ANC) in February 2018 and replaced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has consistently denied wrongdoing over his nine years in power.

Under pressure from rivals in the ANC, Zuma set up the corruption inquiry he now sits before in his final weeks as president, as a number of his colleagues, including Ramaphosa, feared scandals surrounding Zuma could indelibly tarnish the party`s reputation.

Zuma had avoided establishing the inquiry since a 2016 report by South Africa`s anti-corruption watchdog, the public protector, instructed him to do so to investigate allegations that three Gupta brothers had been able to influence ministerial appointments and had won state contracts improperly.

Former South African president Jacob Zuma told a corruption inquiry on Monday that he had never broken the law with the Gupta family, describing the businessmen at the centre of an influence-peddling scandal as friends.

Former South African president Jacob Zuma told a corruption inquiry on Monday that he had never broken the law with the Gupta family, describing the businessmen at the centre of an influence-peddling scandal as friends. Zuma also said he was the victim of a conspiracy by enemies who had tried to get rid of him for more than 20 years. His appearance at the inquiry – set up to test allegations that Zuma allowed cronies to plunder state resources and influence government appointments – marked a dramatic fall from grace for a politician who long dominated the country’s politics. Referring to the three Gupta brothers, Zuma said, "I never did anything with them unlawfully, they just remained friends. … Never, never did I discuss any matter that does not belong to them". "They were businesspeople and successful businesspeople," Zuma continued. "I`m not a businessperson, I know nothing about business, I`m a politician, I know something about politics." Zuma, ousted by the governing African National Congress (ANC) in February 2018 and replaced by President Cyril Ramaphosa, has consistently denied wrongdoing over his nine years in power. Under pressure from rivals in the ANC, Zuma set up the corruption inquiry he now sits before in his final weeks as president, as a number of his colleagues, including Ramaphosa, feared scandals surrounding Zuma could indelibly tarnish the party`s reputation. Zuma had avoided establishing the inquiry since a 2016 report by South Africa`s anti-corruption watchdog, the public protector, instructed him to do so to investigate allegations that three Gupta brothers had been able to influence ministerial appointments and had won state contracts improperly.

South Africa's Jacob Zuma denies breaking law with business brothers

Former South African president Jacob Zuma used the country's intelligence services for his own political and personal interests, most notably against his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa, a government report charges.

Published Saturday on Ramaphosa's initiative, the report of about 100 pages details "serious breaches of the Constitution, policy, law, regulations and directives" by Zuma during his nearly nine years in office.

The State Security Agency (SSA) targeted Ramaphosa in the run-up to his becoming head of the ruling African National Congress in 2017, and then president, it said. Zuma stepped down in early 2018 amid charges of massive corruption.

The agency was "able to infiltrate and penetrate the leadership structure" of the movement against Zuma, said the report, drawn up by a team under former minister Sydney Mufamadi said.

The SSA became a "cash cow" for many, both inside and outside the agency, it added.

Ramaphosa has promised to root out corruption and, in a strong statement on the report, condemned the way the intelligence services had been politicised.

"A key finding of the panel is that there has been political malpurposing and factionalisation of the intelligence community over the past decade or more that has resulted in an almost complete disregard for the Constitution, policy, legislation and other prescripts," the president said.

A review should consider splitting the SSA in two to create a domestic and a foreign service, he added. 
&nbsp;

Former South African president Jacob Zuma used the country's intelligence services for his own political and personal interests, most notably against his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa, a government report charges.

Former South African president Jacob Zuma used the country's intelligence services for his own political and personal interests, most notably against his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa, a government report charges. Published Saturday on Ramaphosa's initiative, the report of about 100 pages details "serious breaches of the Constitution, policy, law, regulations and directives" by Zuma during his nearly nine years in office. The State Security Agency (SSA) targeted Ramaphosa in the run-up to his becoming head of the ruling African National Congress in 2017, and then president, it said. Zuma stepped down in early 2018 amid charges of massive corruption. The agency was "able to infiltrate and penetrate the leadership structure" of the movement against Zuma, said the report, drawn up by a team under former minister Sydney Mufamadi said. The SSA became a "cash cow" for many, both inside and outside the agency, it added. Ramaphosa has promised to root out corruption and, in a strong statement on the report, condemned the way the intelligence services had been politicised. "A key finding of the panel is that there has been political malpurposing and factionalisation of the intelligence community over the past decade or more that has resulted in an almost complete disregard for the Constitution, policy, legislation and other prescripts," the president said. A review should consider splitting the SSA in two to create a domestic and a foreign service, he added.

South Africa: Probe reveals Zuma used intel services to target Ramaphosa

An elite South Africa police unit raided offices of India’s Bank of Baroda on Friday and seized documents as part of an investigation into state corruption under former president Jacob Zuma, a police spokesman said.

Bank of Baroda, which is winding down its operations in South Africa, was thrust into the spotlight two years ago when it started working with the Guptas, a family of Indian-born businessmen who are at the centre of an influence-peddling scandal surrounding Zuma.

Zuma and the Guptas deny wrongdoing.

Police raided Bank of Baroda branches in Johannesburg and Durban and took documents showing bank transactions involving South African state firms, Hangwani Mulaudzi, a spokesman for the police’s elite “Hawks” unit, said.

“We are of the view that Bank of Baroda was used as a conduit for the transfer of illicit funds. The raids are happening as part of ‘state capture’ investigations,” Mulaudzi said, using a phrase coined to describe alleged influence-peddling under Zuma.

A Bank of Baroda employee in Durban who picked up the telephone confirmed the Hawks had visited the bank’s premises on Friday.

“This search and seizure operation is not for investigation on Bank of Baroda. This requisition by the Hawks is in relation to the continuing ongoing investigation of the Gupta family,” the bank said in a statement on Saturday.

The bank has been cooperating with investigating agencies and has shared relevant documents with them, it said.

An inquiry into allegations surrounding Zuma and the Guptas will begin formal public hearings in August and could take two years or more, officials have said.

Police earlier this year raided the compound of the Guptas in Johannesburg as part of an investigation into theft, fraud and money laundering at a state-backed dairy project in the Free State province that was meant to benefit the local community.

The whereabouts of the Gupta brothers is not publicly known. One of the brothers, Ajay Gupta, was declared a “fugitive from justice” after leaving South Africa for Dubai in February.

Gupta family representatives in South Africa could not be reached for comment.

Zuma was in court on Friday for a separate hearing relating to a $2.5 billion arms deal from the 1990s. He faces 16 charges of fraud, racketeering, corruption and money laundering in that case.&nbsp

Bank of Baroda, which is winding down its operations in South Africa, was thrust into the spotlight two years ago when it started working with the Guptas, a family of Indian-born businessmen who are at the centre of an influence-peddling scandal surrounding Zuma

An elite South Africa police unit raided offices of India’s Bank of Baroda on Friday and seized documents as part of an investigation into state corruption under former president Jacob Zuma, a police spokesman said. Bank of Baroda, which is winding down its operations in South Africa, was thrust into the spotlight two years ago when it started working with the Guptas, a family of Indian-born businessmen who are at the centre of an influence-peddling scandal surrounding Zuma. Zuma and the Guptas deny wrongdoing. Police raided Bank of Baroda branches in Johannesburg and Durban and took documents showing bank transactions involving South African state firms, Hangwani Mulaudzi, a spokesman for the police’s elite “Hawks” unit, said. “We are of the view that Bank of Baroda was used as a conduit for the transfer of illicit funds. The raids are happening as part of ‘state capture’ investigations,” Mulaudzi said, using a phrase coined to describe alleged influence-peddling under Zuma. A Bank of Baroda employee in Durban who picked up the telephone confirmed the Hawks had visited the bank’s premises on Friday. “This search and seizure operation is not for investigation on Bank of Baroda. This requisition by the Hawks is in relation to the continuing ongoing investigation of the Gupta family,” the bank said in a statement on Saturday. The bank has been cooperating with investigating agencies and has shared relevant documents with them, it said. An inquiry into allegations surrounding Zuma and the Guptas will begin formal public hearings in August and could take two years or more, officials have said. Police earlier this year raided the compound of the Guptas in Johannesburg as part of an investigation into theft, fraud and money laundering at a state-backed dairy project in the Free State province that was meant to benefit the local community. The whereabouts of the Gupta brothers is not publicly known. One of the brothers, Ajay Gupta, was declared a “fugitive from justice” after leaving South Africa for Dubai in February. Gupta family representatives in South Africa could not be reached for comment. Zuma was in court on Friday for a separate hearing relating to a $2.5 billion arms deal from the 1990s. He faces 16 charges of fraud, racketeering, corruption and money laundering in that case.

South African police raid Bank of Baroda in ex-President Zuma's corruption investigation

Former South African president Jacob Zuma will face prosecution on corruption charges that haunted much of his term in office, the country&#39;s chief prosecutor said Friday.

The ruling is the latest twist in a case that has dogged post-apartheid South Africa&#39;s democratic leadership after the country inked a $5-billion (4.2-billion-euro) arms deal in the 1990s.

&quot;After consideration of the matter I am of the view there are reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution of Mr Zuma on the charges listed in the indictment,&quot; said National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams at a media briefing in Pretoria.

Zuma will face racketeering, corruption, money laundering and fraud charges -- all of which can carry lengthy custodial sentences on conviction.&nbsp;

&quot;I am of the view that a trial court would be the most appropriate forum for these issues to be ventilated and to be decided upon,&quot; said Abrahams.

The former president could now appeal the ruling on a number of grounds and argue that the decision is illegitimate as Abrahams&#39; own position is uncertain.

In December, the High Court in Pretoria ordered then-deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa to replace Abrahams, ruling that Zuma&#39;s original decision to appoint him was &quot;null and void&quot; because he was &quot;conflicted&quot; at the time.

&quot;Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done -- I am mindful that everyone is equal before the law,&quot; said Abrahams, who noted that &quot;Mr Zuma disputes all allegations against him&quot;.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t think Zuma can stay out of court -- there&#39;s too many charges hanging over him,&quot; independent political analyst and author Nomavenda Mathiane told AFP ahead of the announcement.

Abrahams said that his department&#39;s representatives in Zuma&#39;s home region of KwaZulu-Natal &quot;will facilitate the necessary processes for Mr Zuma and his co-accused to appear in court&quot;.&nbsp;

Last year, a court ruled against a decision by prosecutors in 2009 to drop the corruption charges against Zuma just months before he became president, laying the path to Friday&#39;s announcement.

Zuma&#39;s criminal charges relate to an arms procurement deals struck by the government in the late 1990s and from which he is accused of profiting corruptly to the tune of four million rand ($345,000, 280,000 euros).

State prosecutors previously justified dropping the case by saying that tapped phone calls between officials in then-president Thabo Mbeki&#39;s administration showed undue interference.

Zuma and other officials were accused of taking kickbacks from the purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and other arms manufactured by five European firms, including British military equipment maker BAE Systems and French company Thales.

In 2005 Zuma&#39;s former financial adviser Schabir Shaik was convicted for facilitating bribes over the contracts and sentenced to 15 years in prison. He was later released on medical parole.

Zuma resigned as president last month after the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party threatened to remove him from office.

The ANC noted Friday&#39;s decision and called in a statement for &quot;Comrade Zacob Zuma to be presumed innocent until, and if, proven guilty&quot;.

The AfriForum campaign group, which has railed against corruption in South Africa&#39;s democratic era, had threatened to privately prosecute Zuma if the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) did not.

&quot;The NPA&#39;s decision to prosecute Zuma (is) not only a victory for AfriForum, but also for the principle of equality before the law,&quot; said the group&#39;s chief executive Kallie Kriel.

In addition to the corruption scandals that dogged his time in office, Zuma had been under fire for his handling of the economy, which has been battered by falling economic growth and record unemployment.

The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party has campaigned since 2009 to reactivate the charges.

&quot;It doesn&#39;t matter who you are, whether you are the president, in whatever office you hold, accountability must be effective and justice will be met,&quot; said DA leader Mmusi Maimane.

&quot;He must have his day in court... We will see him in orange overalls.&quot;

Zuma&#39;s successor Ramaphosa has vowed to tackle corruption, admitting it was a major problem in the previous government.

The ruling is the latest twist in a case that has dogged post-apartheid South Africa's democratic leadership after the country inked a $5-billion (4.2-billion-euro) arms deal in the 1990s

Former South African president Jacob Zuma will face prosecution on corruption charges that haunted much of his term in office, the country's chief prosecutor said Friday. The ruling is the latest twist in a case that has dogged post-apartheid South Africa's democratic leadership after the country inked a $5-billion (4.2-billion-euro) arms deal in the 1990s. "After consideration of the matter I am of the view there are reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution of Mr Zuma on the charges listed in the indictment," said National Director of Public Prosecutions Shaun Abrahams at a media briefing in Pretoria. Zuma will face racketeering, corruption, money laundering and fraud charges -- all of which can carry lengthy custodial sentences on conviction. "I am of the view that a trial court would be the most appropriate forum for these issues to be ventilated and to be decided upon," said Abrahams. The former president could now appeal the ruling on a number of grounds and argue that the decision is illegitimate as Abrahams' own position is uncertain. In December, the High Court in Pretoria ordered then-deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa to replace Abrahams, ruling that Zuma's original decision to appoint him was "null and void" because he was "conflicted" at the time. "Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done -- I am mindful that everyone is equal before the law," said Abrahams, who noted that "Mr Zuma disputes all allegations against him". "I don't think Zuma can stay out of court -- there's too many charges hanging over him," independent political analyst and author Nomavenda Mathiane told AFP ahead of the announcement. Abrahams said that his department's representatives in Zuma's home region of KwaZulu-Natal "will facilitate the necessary processes for Mr Zuma and his co-accused to appear in court". Last year, a court ruled against a decision by prosecutors in 2009 to drop the corruption charges against Zuma just months before he became president, laying the path to Friday's announcement. Zuma's criminal charges relate to an arms procurement deals struck by the government in the late 1990s and from which he is accused of profiting corruptly to the tune of four million rand ($345,000, 280,000 euros). State prosecutors previously justified dropping the case by saying that tapped phone calls between officials in then-president Thabo Mbeki's administration showed undue interference. Zuma and other officials were accused of taking kickbacks from the purchase of fighter jets, patrol boats and other arms manufactured by five European firms, including British military equipment maker BAE Systems and French company Thales. In 2005 Zuma's former financial adviser Schabir Shaik was convicted for facilitating bribes over the contracts and sentenced to 15 years in prison. He was later released on medical parole. Zuma resigned as president last month after the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party threatened to remove him from office. The ANC noted Friday's decision and called in a statement for "Comrade Zacob Zuma to be presumed innocent until, and if, proven guilty". The AfriForum campaign group, which has railed against corruption in South Africa's democratic era, had threatened to privately prosecute Zuma if the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) did not. "The NPA's decision to prosecute Zuma (is) not only a victory for AfriForum, but also for the principle of equality before the law," said the group's chief executive Kallie Kriel. In addition to the corruption scandals that dogged his time in office, Zuma had been under fire for his handling of the economy, which has been battered by falling economic growth and record unemployment. The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) party has campaigned since 2009 to reactivate the charges. "It doesn't matter who you are, whether you are the president, in whatever office you hold, accountability must be effective and justice will be met," said DA leader Mmusi Maimane. "He must have his day in court... We will see him in orange overalls." Zuma's successor Ramaphosa has vowed to tackle corruption, admitting it was a major problem in the previous government.

South Africa ex-president Zuma to face graft prosecution

Income Tax officials on Tuesday raided the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/zuma-downfall-how-gupta-brothers-became-a-powerhouse-in-south-africa-32925"> offices and properties of businessman Ajay Gupta</a> and his brothers in Uttar Pradesh&#39;s Saharanpur.

The Gupta <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-police-raid-home-of-guptas-friends-of-president-zuma-32846">brothers believed to have</a> close links to ex-South African President Jacob Zuma have been under scanner for several controversial deals in the country.

The Gupta family owns a range of business interests in South Africa, including computing, mining, air travel, energy, technology, and media.

Last month the South African police had said they had obtained an arrest warrant for absconding businessman Ajay Gupta.

The South African police had raided the house plush suburb of Saxonwold in Johannesburg in connection with the Vrede farm investigation.

The Vrede farm investigation relates to the Estina dairy farm near Vrede, in the Free State, a project which was originally meant to help poor black farmers but from which the Gupta family are alleged to have pocketed millions of dollars.

The family denies the allegations.&nbsp;

They are known friends of 75-year-old President Zuma - and his son, daughter and one of the president&#39;s wives worked for the family&#39;s firms, media reports had said.

South Africa&#39;s ethics watchdog, the Public Protector, published a damning report in October 2016, finding that the state-owned electricity monopoly had awarded a massive coal order to a then-Gupta linked business at well above market prices

The report also alleged that former mining minister Zwane travelled to Switzerland with the Guptas to help them &quot;seal the deal&quot; to buy a coal mine.

The Gupta family has reportedly been mentioned 232 times in the report &quot;State of Capture&quot; because of its influence in South Africa.

The Gupta family owns a range of business interests in South Africa, including computing, mining, air travel, energy, technology, and media.

Income Tax officials on Tuesday raided the offices and properties of businessman Ajay Gupta and his brothers in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur. The Gupta brothers believed to have close links to ex-South African President Jacob Zuma have been under scanner for several controversial deals in the country. The Gupta family owns a range of business interests in South Africa, including computing, mining, air travel, energy, technology, and media. Last month the South African police had said they had obtained an arrest warrant for absconding businessman Ajay Gupta. The South African police had raided the house plush suburb of Saxonwold in Johannesburg in connection with the Vrede farm investigation. The Vrede farm investigation relates to the Estina dairy farm near Vrede, in the Free State, a project which was originally meant to help poor black farmers but from which the Gupta family are alleged to have pocketed millions of dollars. The family denies the allegations. They are known friends of 75-year-old President Zuma - and his son, daughter and one of the president's wives worked for the family's firms, media reports had said. South Africa's ethics watchdog, the Public Protector, published a damning report in October 2016, finding that the state-owned electricity monopoly had awarded a massive coal order to a then-Gupta linked business at well above market prices The report also alleged that former mining minister Zwane travelled to Switzerland with the Guptas to help them "seal the deal" to buy a coal mine. The Gupta family has reportedly been mentioned 232 times in the report "State of Capture" because of its influence in South Africa.

Zuma link: Gupta brothers house, properties raided in Uttar Pradesh

Jacob Zuma resigned as South African president late on Wednesday, under pressure from allies of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, who replaced him as leader of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) in December.

The 75-year-old&#39;s resignation caps the end of a tumultuous decade in which Zuma has survived several no-confidence votes in parliament, a string of corruption allegations and street protests against his rule.

Below are some of the main scandals involving Zuma. Some date from before he became president in 2009.

ARMS DEAL 
Zuma is still fighting 783 counts of corruption over a 30 billion rand (now $2.5 billion) government arms deal arranged in the late 1990s when he was deputy president.&nbsp; 
The charges were set aside in 2009, paving the way for Zuma to run for president, but were re-instated in 2016 by the Supreme Court.

RAPE ACCUSATION 
While deputy president of the ANC, Zuma was charged with raping Fezekile &quot;Khwezi&quot; Kuzwayo, the HIV-positive daughter of a friend who had been imprisoned on Robben Island with Zuma during the apartheid era. 
Zuma was acquitted in 2006 but was ridiculed after saying he had showered after sex to reduce the risk of contracting HIV.

NKANDLA UPGRADES 
Soon after becoming president, it emerged that millions of dollars of public money had been spent on upgrades to Zuma`s Nkandla home, including a swimming pool that one minister justified as a fire-fighting resource. 
Zuma weathered a no-confidence vote in parliament over the upgrades and paid back more than $500,000 after unsuccessfully trying to argue his case in the Constitutional Court.

SONONO KHOZA 
Zuma apologised to South Africans in 2010 after fathering a child out of wedlock with his friend Irvin Khoza`s daughter, Sonono Khoza.&nbsp; 
Zuma, a polygamist, had promised the ANC`s leadership he would not engage in extramarital sex after the Khwezi episode.

CLEVER BLACKS 
Zuma caused controversy in 2012 for scolding black people &quot;who become too clever&quot; in an address to South Africa`s National House of Traditional Leaders, saying &quot;they become the most eloquent in criticising themselves about their own traditions&quot;.&nbsp; 
Zuma, who received no formal schooling, has a loyal following in rural areas but has tended to receive less support in urban areas where education levels are higher.

WATERKLOOF LANDING 
Zuma`s friends, the Gupta brothers, used the top-security Waterkloof air base to fly in 200 wedding guests from India for a family member`s wedding in 2013, sparking a public outcry.&nbsp; 
The ANC called the landing reckless and a breach of national security.

NENEGATE 
Zuma fired finance minister Nhlanhla Nene in December 2015, replacing him with unknown parliamentary backbencher Des van Rooyen. Zuma was forced to sack van Rooyen and re-appoint a previous finance minister, Pravin Gordhan, four days later after the rand currency collapsed.

ELECTORAL DEBACLE 
The ANC lost its grip on local government in three metropolitan areas in 2016, the ruling party`s worst election result since the end of white minority rule in 1994. Unemployment, economic stagnation and scandals around Zuma were among reasons the ANC lost voter support.

&quot;STATE CAPTURE&quot; 
In 2016, the Public Protector, South Africa`s main anti-corruption watchdog, published a report entitled &quot;State of Capture&quot; alleging the Guptas had tried to influence the appointment of cabinet ministers and were unlawfully awarded state tenders.

Central to the report was the claim by then-deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas that Zuma`s son Duduzane invited him to the Gupta family home where he was offered the job of finance minister and a bribe of 600 million rand.

The Guptas and Zuma have denied any wrongdoing. The Public Protector recommended a judicial enquiry be set up to investigate grand-level corruption involving Zuma and the Guptas.

MIDNIGHT RESHUFFLE 
Zuma fired Gordhan as finance minister and Jonas as deputy finance minister in a midnight reshuffle in March 2017. South African financial markets plummeted, with senior ANC officials expressing anger at the lack of consultation.

The 75-year-old's resignation caps the end of a tumultuous decade in which Zuma has survived several no-confidence votes in parliament, a string of corruption allegations and street protests against his rule

Jacob Zuma resigned as South African president late on Wednesday, under pressure from allies of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa, who replaced him as leader of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) in December. The 75-year-old's resignation caps the end of a tumultuous decade in which Zuma has survived several no-confidence votes in parliament, a string of corruption allegations and street protests against his rule. Below are some of the main scandals involving Zuma. Some date from before he became president in 2009. ARMS DEAL Zuma is still fighting 783 counts of corruption over a 30 billion rand (now $2.5 billion) government arms deal arranged in the late 1990s when he was deputy president. The charges were set aside in 2009, paving the way for Zuma to run for president, but were re-instated in 2016 by the Supreme Court. RAPE ACCUSATION While deputy president of the ANC, Zuma was charged with raping Fezekile "Khwezi" Kuzwayo, the HIV-positive daughter of a friend who had been imprisoned on Robben Island with Zuma during the apartheid era. Zuma was acquitted in 2006 but was ridiculed after saying he had showered after sex to reduce the risk of contracting HIV. NKANDLA UPGRADES Soon after becoming president, it emerged that millions of dollars of public money had been spent on upgrades to Zuma`s Nkandla home, including a swimming pool that one minister justified as a fire-fighting resource. Zuma weathered a no-confidence vote in parliament over the upgrades and paid back more than $500,000 after unsuccessfully trying to argue his case in the Constitutional Court. SONONO KHOZA Zuma apologised to South Africans in 2010 after fathering a child out of wedlock with his friend Irvin Khoza`s daughter, Sonono Khoza. Zuma, a polygamist, had promised the ANC`s leadership he would not engage in extramarital sex after the Khwezi episode. CLEVER BLACKS Zuma caused controversy in 2012 for scolding black people "who become too clever" in an address to South Africa`s National House of Traditional Leaders, saying "they become the most eloquent in criticising themselves about their own traditions". Zuma, who received no formal schooling, has a loyal following in rural areas but has tended to receive less support in urban areas where education levels are higher. WATERKLOOF LANDING Zuma`s friends, the Gupta brothers, used the top-security Waterkloof air base to fly in 200 wedding guests from India for a family member`s wedding in 2013, sparking a public outcry. The ANC called the landing reckless and a breach of national security. NENEGATE Zuma fired finance minister Nhlanhla Nene in December 2015, replacing him with unknown parliamentary backbencher Des van Rooyen. Zuma was forced to sack van Rooyen and re-appoint a previous finance minister, Pravin Gordhan, four days later after the rand currency collapsed. ELECTORAL DEBACLE The ANC lost its grip on local government in three metropolitan areas in 2016, the ruling party`s worst election result since the end of white minority rule in 1994. Unemployment, economic stagnation and scandals around Zuma were among reasons the ANC lost voter support. "STATE CAPTURE" In 2016, the Public Protector, South Africa`s main anti-corruption watchdog, published a report entitled "State of Capture" alleging the Guptas had tried to influence the appointment of cabinet ministers and were unlawfully awarded state tenders. Central to the report was the claim by then-deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas that Zuma`s son Duduzane invited him to the Gupta family home where he was offered the job of finance minister and a bribe of 600 million rand. The Guptas and Zuma have denied any wrongdoing. The Public Protector recommended a judicial enquiry be set up to investigate grand-level corruption involving Zuma and the Guptas. MIDNIGHT RESHUFFLE Zuma fired Gordhan as finance minister and Jonas as deputy finance minister in a midnight reshuffle in March 2017. South African financial markets plummeted, with senior ANC officials expressing anger at the lack of consultation.

South Africa's divisive president: Zuma's many scandals

As President Zuma <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/zuma-resigns-as-president-of-south-africa-32912">stepped down from office in South Africa</a> throwing the ruling African National Congress(ANC) in crisis, the Gupta family from India has become the focus of attention.

The politically <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-police-raid-home-of-guptas-friends-of-president-zuma-32846">connected Gupta brothers - Ajay, Atul and Rajesh</a> - were reportedly in India at Saharanpur attending a family function even as authorities in South Africa were conducting raids in their luxury&nbsp;home in Johannesburg.

Police also raided the Guptas&#39; Oakbay holding company in Johannesburg&#39;s Sandton financial district.

Atul Gupta landed in South Africa in 1993, a year before ANC chief Nelson Mandela was freed from jail. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The Gupta brothers made most of the opportunities as South Africa opened up to the world as apartheid became a thing of the past.

The Guptas from Uttar Pradesh built companies spanning computers, mining, media, technology and engineering and developed contacts with the ANC.

In recent years, as the Guptas became rich and famous, the media increasingly focussed on them with reports of Zuma&#39;s son Duduzane being made the director of the Gupta-owned Sahara Computers, named after their hometown of Saharanpur, and his involvement in several other family companies.

Zuma&#39;s third wife Bongi Ngema and one of his daughters also have reportedly been employed by the Guptas.

South Africa&#39;s ethics watchdog, the Public Protector, published a damning report in October 2016, finding that the state-owned electricity monopoly had awarded a massive coal order to a then-Gupta linked business at well above market prices, according to AFP

The report also alleged that former mining minister Zwane travelled to Switzerland with the Guptas to help them &quot;seal the deal&quot; to buy a coal mine.

The Gupta family has reportedly been mentioned 232 times in the report &quot;State of Capture&quot; because of its influence in South Africa.

The family may now face government&nbsp;inquiry into their business dealings with potentially devasting consequences which could also hit several companies which employ&nbsp;hundreds of people in South Africa.

The Gupta brothers made most of the opportunities as South Africa opened up to the world as apartheid became a thing of the past.

As President Zuma stepped down from office in South Africa throwing the ruling African National Congress(ANC) in crisis, the Gupta family from India has become the focus of attention. The politically connected Gupta brothers - Ajay, Atul and Rajesh - were reportedly in India at Saharanpur attending a family function even as authorities in South Africa were conducting raids in their luxury home in Johannesburg. Police also raided the Guptas' Oakbay holding company in Johannesburg's Sandton financial district. Atul Gupta landed in South Africa in 1993, a year before ANC chief Nelson Mandela was freed from jail. The Gupta brothers made most of the opportunities as South Africa opened up to the world as apartheid became a thing of the past. The Guptas from Uttar Pradesh built companies spanning computers, mining, media, technology and engineering and developed contacts with the ANC. In recent years, as the Guptas became rich and famous, the media increasingly focussed on them with reports of Zuma's son Duduzane being made the director of the Gupta-owned Sahara Computers, named after their hometown of Saharanpur, and his involvement in several other family companies. Zuma's third wife Bongi Ngema and one of his daughters also have reportedly been employed by the Guptas. South Africa's ethics watchdog, the Public Protector, published a damning report in October 2016, finding that the state-owned electricity monopoly had awarded a massive coal order to a then-Gupta linked business at well above market prices, according to AFP The report also alleged that former mining minister Zwane travelled to Switzerland with the Guptas to help them "seal the deal" to buy a coal mine. The Gupta family has reportedly been mentioned 232 times in the report "State of Capture" because of its influence in South Africa. The family may now face government inquiry into their business dealings with potentially devasting consequences which could also hit several companies which employ hundreds of people in South Africa.

Zuma downfall: How Gupta brothers became a powerhouse in South Africa

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-student-opens-fire-in-florida-school-at-least-17-killed-32906">Ex-student opens fire in Florida school, at least 17 killed</a>

A 19-year-old former student opened fire at a Florida school killing at least 17 people terrifying students before he was arrested by police. The gunman was identified as Nikolaus Cruz, an ex-student of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. Cruz was earlier expelled from school due to &quot;disciplinary reasons.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/now-india-china-battle-in-bangladesh-stock-exchange-32913">Now, India, China battle in Bangladesh stock exchange</a>

India and China put up bids in the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) as the struggle for supremacy in South Asia took a new turn in the Bangladesh stock exchange. The bids immediately became the centre of controversy as India&#39;s National Stock Exchange had offered 15 taka ($0.18) per share for a 25 per cent stake and China&#39;s Shanghai and Shenzen stock exchanges made a joint higher bid of 22 taka ($0.26) per share, or $122 million.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/oru-adaar-love-director-refuses-to-withdraw-song-from-film-32914">&#39;Oru </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/oru-adaar-love-director-refuses-to-withdraw-song-from-film-32914">Adaar</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/oru-adaar-love-director-refuses-to-withdraw-song-from-film-32914"> Love&#39; director refuses to withdraw song from film</a>

The director of the Malayalam film &quot;Oru Adaar Love&quot; Omar Lulu and its music director Shan Rehman said on Wednesday that the song &quot;Manikya Malaraya poovi&quot; would not be withdrawn for the time being. The statement, made at a late night press conference by Omar Lulu and Shan Rehman on Wednesday, comes after a police complaint against the director stating that the lyrics of the song hurt the religious sentiments of Muslims.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/54-dolphins-found-stranded-on-mexican-beach-32908">21 dolphins dead, several washed up on Mexico beach</a>

Mexican authorities have informed that dozens of dolphins were found stranded on a rocky beach along the coast of Baja California Sur State on Tuesday. At least 21 dolphins were found dead out of the 54 that had washed up on the beach in northern Mexico, federal environmental protection agency said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/zuma-resigns-as-president-of-south-africa-32912">Zuma resigns as President of South Africa</a>

Jacob Zuma resigned as President of South Africa on Wednesday under pressure from his own party, the ruling African National Congress (ANC), to quit. The resignation brought an end to his nine years in power which were plagued by charges of graft and economic slowdown.

Ex-student opens fire in Florida school, at least 17 killed A 19-year-old former student opened fire at a Florida school killing at least 17 people terrifying students before he was arrested by police. The gunman was identified as Nikolaus Cruz, an ex-student of Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland. Cruz was earlier expelled from school due to "disciplinary reasons." Now, India, China battle in Bangladesh stock exchange India and China put up bids in the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) as the struggle for supremacy in South Asia took a new turn in the Bangladesh stock exchange. The bids immediately became the centre of controversy as India's National Stock Exchange had offered 15 taka ($0.18) per share for a 25 per cent stake and China's Shanghai and Shenzen stock exchanges made a joint higher bid of 22 taka ($0.26) per share, or $122 million. 'Oru Adaar Love' director refuses to withdraw song from film The director of the Malayalam film "Oru Adaar Love" Omar Lulu and its music director Shan Rehman said on Wednesday that the song "Manikya Malaraya poovi" would not be withdrawn for the time being. The statement, made at a late night press conference by Omar Lulu and Shan Rehman on Wednesday, comes after a police complaint against the director stating that the lyrics of the song hurt the religious sentiments of Muslims. 21 dolphins dead, several washed up on Mexico beach Mexican authorities have informed that dozens of dolphins were found stranded on a rocky beach along the coast of Baja California Sur State on Tuesday. At least 21 dolphins were found dead out of the 54 that had washed up on the beach in northern Mexico, federal environmental protection agency said. Zuma resigns as President of South Africa Jacob Zuma resigned as President of South Africa on Wednesday under pressure from his own party, the ruling African National Congress (ANC), to quit. The resignation brought an end to his nine years in power which were plagued by charges of graft and economic slowdown.

WION Morning News Brief, February 15, 2018

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-mujahideen-terrorist-involved-in-multiple-blasts-arrested-by-delhi-police-32850">165 people died in bombings arrested IM terrorist was involved </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-mujahideen-terrorist-involved-in-multiple-blasts-arrested-by-delhi-police-32850">in</a>:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-mujahideen-terrorist-involved-in-multiple-blasts-arrested-by-delhi-police-32850">&nbsp;Delhi Police</a>

Delhi Police Special Cell on Wednesday nabbed a 32-year-old Indian Mujahideen (IM) suspect, Ariz Khan alias Junaid. He was associated with Atif Amin who was killed in Batala House encounter.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-priya-prakash-varrier-wants-to-work-with-shah-rukh-khan-ranveer-singh-32852">WION exclusive: Priya Prakash </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-priya-prakash-varrier-wants-to-work-with-shah-rukh-khan-ranveer-singh-32852">Varrier</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/entertainment-priya-prakash-varrier-wants-to-work-with-shah-rukh-khan-ranveer-singh-32852"> says she wants to work with Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh</a>

In an interview with WION, Priya spoke about being nation&#39;s current obsession, her debut film, her co-stars and her desire to work in Bollywood. The actress became an overnight sensation soon after a clip of her&#39;s from the film Oru Adaar Love went viral.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/has-anyone-ever-said-i-love-you-to-modi-asks-jignesh-mevani-32858">Has anyone ever said &#39;I love you&#39; to Modi, asks Jignesh Mevani</a>

Mevani, who has often stridently taken on Modi, also tweeted the hit &lsquo;Manikya Malaraya Poovi&rsquo; song featuring Priya Prakash Varrier which has been all over the Internet recently.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/plaint-against-oru-adaar-lovedirector-for-hurting-the-muslim-sentiments-32848">Complaint filed against &#39;Oru </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/plaint-against-oru-adaar-lovedirector-for-hurting-the-muslim-sentiments-32848">Adaar</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/plaint-against-oru-adaar-lovedirector-for-hurting-the-muslim-sentiments-32848"> Love&#39; director for hurting Muslim sentiments</a> 
The police complaint was filed after the song &#39;Oru Adaar Love&#39; from the film went viral and made the heroine of the film, Priya Prakash Varrier, an instant internet sensation. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-mps-set-to-finally-oust-zuma-thursday-anc-32863">South African MPs set to finally oust Zuma Thursday: ANC</a> 
Zuma, who now faces as ignomious end to his nine scandal-plagued years in power, was expected to respond later on Wednesday to the ANC&#39;s order for him to resign.

&nbsp;

165 people died in bombings arrested IM terrorist was involved in: Delhi Police Delhi Police Special Cell on Wednesday nabbed a 32-year-old Indian Mujahideen (IM) suspect, Ariz Khan alias Junaid. He was associated with Atif Amin who was killed in Batala House encounter. WION exclusive: Priya Prakash Varrier says she wants to work with Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh In an interview with WION, Priya spoke about being nation's current obsession, her debut film, her co-stars and her desire to work in Bollywood. The actress became an overnight sensation soon after a clip of her's from the film Oru Adaar Love went viral. Has anyone ever said 'I love you' to Modi, asks Jignesh Mevani Mevani, who has often stridently taken on Modi, also tweeted the hit ‘Manikya Malaraya Poovi’ song featuring Priya Prakash Varrier which has been all over the Internet recently. Complaint filed against 'Oru Adaar Love' director for hurting Muslim sentiments The police complaint was filed after the song 'Oru Adaar Love' from the film went viral and made the heroine of the film, Priya Prakash Varrier, an instant internet sensation. South African MPs set to finally oust Zuma Thursday: ANC Zuma, who now faces as ignomious end to his nine scandal-plagued years in power, was expected to respond later on Wednesday to the ANC's order for him to resign.

WION evening news brief, February 14, 2018

South Africa&#39;s ruling ANC party met on Monday to &quot;finalise&quot; the departure of scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma, who has refused to resign, as opposition parties called for early elections.

ANC chief Cyril Ramaphosa, the president-in-waiting, has been locked in confidential talks with Zuma that have pitched the country into political uncertainty.

&quot;We know you want this matter to be finalised,&quot; Ramaphosa said at a party rally in Cape Town on Sunday to rapturous cheering, vowing to tackle corruption that has tarnished Zuma&#39;s government.

Zuma has clung to power after rejecting a request by his party&#39;s senior officials to resign more than a week ago.

South African opposition parties on Monday called for early elections as the ANC grappled with its high-stakes leadership battle.

&quot;We must proceed to the dissolution of parliament... subsequent to that, we move on to an early election,&quot; Democratic Alliance (DA) party leader Mmusi Maimane told reporters, speaking alongside several opposition parties.

The ANC&#39;s powerful 107-member national executive committee (NEC) met at a hotel outside Pretoria on Monday afternoon.

The committee could recall the president from office, though he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey the order.

If Zuma refuses, he could be ousted via a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days.

&quot;We know you want closure,&quot; Ramaphosa said on Sunday. &quot;Because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that.&quot;

Down to a vote?

Political analyst Somadoda Fikeni said the committee was split.

Some members facing corrupt allegations while serving under Zuma are &quot;not fighting for a principle or the ANC, it will be the basic instinct of self-preservation,&quot; he told eNCA television.

&quot;They will strive for consensus, but if that fails, it will go to a vote,&quot; he warned. &quot;The pressure is so much, it has to be the final decision for the ANC leadership. If they fail to do so, they will have surrendered the initiative.&quot;

Zuma&#39;s presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger.

The stalemate over Zuma&#39;s departure has left Africa&#39;s most developed economy in limbo, with a series of public events cancelled last week including Thursday&#39;s State of the Nation address to parliament.

Zuma&#39;s hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- his former wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost to Ramaphosa in a vote to be the new party leader.

Mandela&#39;s party

Sunday&#39;s rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Nelson Mandela&#39;s birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to try to revive the party&#39;s tainted reputation ahead of next year&#39;s general election.

His speech marked the 28th anniversary of the address Mandela gave in the same location after being released from prison in 1990.

It is understood that a key sticking point in the negotiations is the potentially ruinous legal fees Zuma is facing from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal cases.

He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals.

The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the budget, which is due on February 21.

Zuma has not spoken publicly since being asked to resign by senior ANC officials on February 4.&nbsp;

In 2008, his supporters pushed out then-president Thabo Mbeki over allegations of abuse of power.

Under Zuma, the ANC won less than 54 per cent of the vote in local elections in 2016 -- its worst electoral performance since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994.

Zuma has clung to power after rejecting a request by his party's senior officials to resign more than a week ago

South Africa's ruling ANC party met on Monday to "finalise" the departure of scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma, who has refused to resign, as opposition parties called for early elections. ANC chief Cyril Ramaphosa, the president-in-waiting, has been locked in confidential talks with Zuma that have pitched the country into political uncertainty. "We know you want this matter to be finalised," Ramaphosa said at a party rally in Cape Town on Sunday to rapturous cheering, vowing to tackle corruption that has tarnished Zuma's government. Zuma has clung to power after rejecting a request by his party's senior officials to resign more than a week ago. South African opposition parties on Monday called for early elections as the ANC grappled with its high-stakes leadership battle. "We must proceed to the dissolution of parliament... subsequent to that, we move on to an early election," Democratic Alliance (DA) party leader Mmusi Maimane told reporters, speaking alongside several opposition parties. The ANC's powerful 107-member national executive committee (NEC) met at a hotel outside Pretoria on Monday afternoon. The committee could recall the president from office, though he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey the order. If Zuma refuses, he could be ousted via a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days. "We know you want closure," Ramaphosa said on Sunday. "Because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that." Down to a vote? Political analyst Somadoda Fikeni said the committee was split. Some members facing corrupt allegations while serving under Zuma are "not fighting for a principle or the ANC, it will be the basic instinct of self-preservation," he told eNCA television. "They will strive for consensus, but if that fails, it will go to a vote," he warned. "The pressure is so much, it has to be the final decision for the ANC leadership. If they fail to do so, they will have surrendered the initiative." Zuma's presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger. The stalemate over Zuma's departure has left Africa's most developed economy in limbo, with a series of public events cancelled last week including Thursday's State of the Nation address to parliament. Zuma's hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- his former wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost to Ramaphosa in a vote to be the new party leader. Mandela's party Sunday's rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Nelson Mandela's birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to try to revive the party's tainted reputation ahead of next year's general election. His speech marked the 28th anniversary of the address Mandela gave in the same location after being released from prison in 1990. It is understood that a key sticking point in the negotiations is the potentially ruinous legal fees Zuma is facing from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal cases. He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals. The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the budget, which is due on February 21. Zuma has not spoken publicly since being asked to resign by senior ANC officials on February 4. In 2008, his supporters pushed out then-president Thabo Mbeki over allegations of abuse of power. Under Zuma, the ANC won less than 54 per cent of the vote in local elections in 2016 -- its worst electoral performance since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994.

South Africa's ANC meets to 'finalise' Zuma's exit

South Africa`s ruling African National Congress (ANC) will convene a special meeting of its decision-making executive on Monday, its spokesman said, amid mounting pressure on President Jacob Zuma to step down.

The ANC called off a similar meeting scheduled for last Wednesday to discuss Zuma`s future after the president and party leader Cyril Ramaphosa agreed to hold talks for a transition of power.

The party has only said that those talks were &quot;constructive&quot;.

Zuma, South Africa`s most controversial president since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, has been in a weakened position since he was replaced as ANC leader by Deputy President Ramaphosa in December.&nbsp;

Zuma, who no longer holds a top position in the party, has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as president ends in the middle of next year.

ANC spokesman Pule Mabe could not say whether Monday`s special meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) would discuss Zuma`s political future.

NEC is a key ANC decision-making body that has the power to instruct Zuma to resign.

&quot;We do have a meeting tomorrow, we are unable to speak about the agenda at this stage,&quot; Mabe said on Sunday.

A senior ANC source told Reuters the meeting was scheduled to take place at 1200 GMT in Pretoria on Monday.

&quot;We expect to discuss Zuma`s future,&quot; another source said.

Zuma has overseen a tumultuous nine years in power marked by economic decline and numerous allegations of corruption.

The ANC called off a similar meeting scheduled for last Wednesday to discuss Zuma`s future after the president and party leader Cyril Ramaphosa agreed to hold talks for a transition of power

South Africa`s ruling African National Congress (ANC) will convene a special meeting of its decision-making executive on Monday, its spokesman said, amid mounting pressure on President Jacob Zuma to step down. The ANC called off a similar meeting scheduled for last Wednesday to discuss Zuma`s future after the president and party leader Cyril Ramaphosa agreed to hold talks for a transition of power. The party has only said that those talks were "constructive". Zuma, South Africa`s most controversial president since the end of white-minority rule in 1994, has been in a weakened position since he was replaced as ANC leader by Deputy President Ramaphosa in December. Zuma, who no longer holds a top position in the party, has not said whether he will resign voluntarily before his second term as president ends in the middle of next year. ANC spokesman Pule Mabe could not say whether Monday`s special meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) would discuss Zuma`s political future. NEC is a key ANC decision-making body that has the power to instruct Zuma to resign. "We do have a meeting tomorrow, we are unable to speak about the agenda at this stage," Mabe said on Sunday. A senior ANC source told Reuters the meeting was scheduled to take place at 1200 GMT in Pretoria on Monday. "We expect to discuss Zuma`s future," another source said. Zuma has overseen a tumultuous nine years in power marked by economic decline and numerous allegations of corruption.

South Africa's ANC to hold meeting on Monday as pressure mounts on Zuma

South Africa&#39;s president-in-waiting Cyril Ramaphosa admitted Sunday to &quot;disunity and discord&quot; in the ruling ANC party as the deadlocked effort to oust scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma ground on.

Ramaphosa, 65, said he wanted to replace &quot;a period of difficulty, disunity and discord&quot; with &quot;a new beginning&quot; for the party, and he vowed to tackle the corruption that has tarnished Zuma`s government.

&quot;We know you want this matter to be finalised,&quot; he said to rapturous cheers at a rally of party faithful in Cape Town.

With the 75-year-old Zuma refusing a February 4 request to resign by senior party officials, the African National Congress&#39;s top decision-making committee will meet on Monday.

The committee could recall the president from office, though he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey the order.

&quot;We know you want closure -- we will be doing so keeping our eyes on what is in the interests of all our people,&quot; he said to loud applause.

&quot;As you have all heard, the National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow... and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that.&quot;

Several thousand ANC supporters wearing the party`s signature yellow, green and black colours -- many also sporting images of Ramaphosa on their shirts -- attended the rally at Cape Town`s symbolic Grand Parade square.

Nomaza Nkukwana, a 54-year-old unemployed woman from nearby Driftsands, said: &quot;We liked the speech and I liked the language he was using.&quot;

&quot;Ramaphosa must come -- then we`ll be having a real president.&quot; 
It was in the same vast square in front of City Hall that on February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela spoke to euphoric crowds hours after his release from prison.

That was his first major speech as a free man and a key moment in South Africa`s modern rebirth as white-minority apartheid rule crumbled.

Holding the microphone for Mandela that day was a young Ramaphosa, then a trade union leader.

Zuma`s presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger in sharp contrast to the mood of national optimism that swept South Africa after Mandela`s release.

The stalemate over Zuma`s departure has left Africa`s most developed economy in limbo, with a series of public events cancelled last week including Thursday`s State of the Nation address to parliament.Zuma`s hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost out to Ramaphosa in a vote for new party leader.

Sunday`s rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Mandela`s birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to repair the party`s reputation ahead of next year`s general election.

&quot;We have arrived at a moment in the history of our country where we can relive that moment when Nelson Mandela was released... we have a new mood right across the country, we can capture that mood and move forward,&quot; Ramaphosa said.

Local media reported that Zuma`s potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges were a key sticking point in the negotiations.

One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power.

He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals. 
&quot;Even if the ANC meeting on Monday decides Zuma needs to step down, he can still refuse because they have no legal authority,&quot; Mcebisi Ndletyana, a politics professor at the University of Johannesburg, told AFP.

&quot;He is not willing to step down voluntarily. They need to close this thing early this week.&quot;

Opposition parties are calling for a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days.The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the finance minister`s budget speech set for February 21.

Under Zuma, who has not spoken since being asked to resign, the ANC suffered its worst electoral setback since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994, winning less than 54 percent of the vote in local elections in 2016.

With the 75-year-old Zuma refusing a February 4 request to resign by senior party officials, the African National Congress's top decision-making committee will meet on Monday

South Africa's president-in-waiting Cyril Ramaphosa admitted Sunday to "disunity and discord" in the ruling ANC party as the deadlocked effort to oust scandal-tainted President Jacob Zuma ground on. Ramaphosa, 65, said he wanted to replace "a period of difficulty, disunity and discord" with "a new beginning" for the party, and he vowed to tackle the corruption that has tarnished Zuma`s government. "We know you want this matter to be finalised," he said to rapturous cheers at a rally of party faithful in Cape Town. With the 75-year-old Zuma refusing a February 4 request to resign by senior party officials, the African National Congress's top decision-making committee will meet on Monday. The committee could recall the president from office, though he would be under no constitutional obligation to obey the order. "We know you want closure -- we will be doing so keeping our eyes on what is in the interests of all our people," he said to loud applause. "As you have all heard, the National Executive Committee of the ANC will be meeting tomorrow... and because our people want this matter to be finalised, the NEC will be doing precisely that." Several thousand ANC supporters wearing the party`s signature yellow, green and black colours -- many also sporting images of Ramaphosa on their shirts -- attended the rally at Cape Town`s symbolic Grand Parade square. Nomaza Nkukwana, a 54-year-old unemployed woman from nearby Driftsands, said: "We liked the speech and I liked the language he was using." "Ramaphosa must come -- then we`ll be having a real president." It was in the same vast square in front of City Hall that on February 11, 1990, Nelson Mandela spoke to euphoric crowds hours after his release from prison. That was his first major speech as a free man and a key moment in South Africa`s modern rebirth as white-minority apartheid rule crumbled. Holding the microphone for Mandela that day was a young Ramaphosa, then a trade union leader. Zuma`s presidency has been marred by corruption scandals, slow economic growth and record unemployment that have fuelled public anger in sharp contrast to the mood of national optimism that swept South Africa after Mandela`s release. The stalemate over Zuma`s departure has left Africa`s most developed economy in limbo, with a series of public events cancelled last week including Thursday`s State of the Nation address to parliament.Zuma`s hold over the ANC was shaken in December when his chosen successor -- ex-wife Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma -- narrowly lost out to Ramaphosa in a vote for new party leader. Sunday`s rally was part of ANC celebrations marking 100 years since Mandela`s birth -- as well as efforts by Ramaphosa to repair the party`s reputation ahead of next year`s general election. "We have arrived at a moment in the history of our country where we can relive that moment when Nelson Mandela was released... we have a new mood right across the country, we can capture that mood and move forward," Ramaphosa said. Local media reported that Zuma`s potentially ruinous legal fees from prolonged court battles against multiple criminal charges were a key sticking point in the negotiations. One case relates to 783 payments he allegedly received linked to an arms deal before he came to power. He is also reportedly seeking legal protection for his family and other associates who have been involved in controversial deals. "Even if the ANC meeting on Monday decides Zuma needs to step down, he can still refuse because they have no legal authority," Mcebisi Ndletyana, a politics professor at the University of Johannesburg, told AFP. "He is not willing to step down voluntarily. They need to close this thing early this week." Opposition parties are calling for a parliamentary vote of no-confidence within days.The ANC has insisted there will be no delay to the finance minister`s budget speech set for February 21. Under Zuma, who has not spoken since being asked to resign, the ANC suffered its worst electoral setback since coming to power with Mandela at the helm in 1994, winning less than 54 percent of the vote in local elections in 2016.

South Africa's Ramaphosa admits 'disunity' as Zuma fights exit

South Africa&#39;s ruling African National Congress (ANC) will hold an urgent meeting on Monday to discuss President Jacob Zuma&#39;s future as head of state after overnight talks with the scandal-plagued 75-year-old failed to secure his departure.

Zuma, in power since 2009, has faced growing pressure to resign since he was replaced as leader of the ANC in December by Cyril Ramaphosa, the deputy president.

The ANC has summoned its National Working Committee (NWC) to meet at 1200 GMT at the party&#39;s Luthuli House headquarters in downtown Johannesburg.

In order for the party to force Zuma to resign as state president, the NWC would have to call a meeting of the National Executive Committee, its top decision-making body, to vote on Zuma&#39;s exit.

The ANC&#39;s top six most powerful officials met Zuma late on Sunday at his official residence in Pretoria but there was no announcement of the outcome.

In a sign of Zuma digging in, a group of supporters called Black First Land First said they would march to Luthuli House on Monday. In response, a pro-Ramaphosa faction of the ANC said it would &quot;defend&quot; the building, raising the prospect of clashes between different camps of the ANC.

Zuma has been deserted by prominent allies since Ramaphosa became leader of the only party to govern South Africa since the end of white minority rule in 1994.

Ramaphosa, 65, is in a strong position to become the next president and has been lobbying for Zuma&#39;s removal.

Zuma has not said whether he will step down voluntarily before his second term as president ends next year. Opposition parties and some in the ANC want him to go before his State of the Nation address to parliament, scheduled for Thursday.

Overnight talks with the scandal-plagued 75-year-old failed to secure his departure

South Africa's ruling African National Congress (ANC) will hold an urgent meeting on Monday to discuss President Jacob Zuma's future as head of state after overnight talks with the scandal-plagued 75-year-old failed to secure his departure. Zuma, in power since 2009, has faced growing pressure to resign since he was replaced as leader of the ANC in December by Cyril Ramaphosa, the deputy president. The ANC has summoned its National Working Committee (NWC) to meet at 1200 GMT at the party's Luthuli House headquarters in downtown Johannesburg. In order for the party to force Zuma to resign as state president, the NWC would have to call a meeting of the National Executive Committee, its top decision-making body, to vote on Zuma's exit. The ANC's top six most powerful officials met Zuma late on Sunday at his official residence in Pretoria but there was no announcement of the outcome. In a sign of Zuma digging in, a group of supporters called Black First Land First said they would march to Luthuli House on Monday. In response, a pro-Ramaphosa faction of the ANC said it would "defend" the building, raising the prospect of clashes between different camps of the ANC. Zuma has been deserted by prominent allies since Ramaphosa became leader of the only party to govern South Africa since the end of white minority rule in 1994. Ramaphosa, 65, is in a strong position to become the next president and has been lobbying for Zuma's removal. Zuma has not said whether he will step down voluntarily before his second term as president ends next year. Opposition parties and some in the ANC want him to go before his State of the Nation address to parliament, scheduled for Thursday.

South Africa's ANC to hold urgent meeting on Zuma's future

zuma

Zuma, News on Zuma, stories on Zuma, articles on Zuma, Zuma stories at Wion, Zuma news, Zuma latest news