SA Apex Court Convicts Zuma Over Illegal Spending On Private Home

Posted by African Examiner Africa, Latest Headlines, World News Thursday, March 31st, 2016

The South African President, Mr. Jacob Zuma has been found guilty of violating the constitution, which requires him to repay government money spent on his private home.

The country’s apex court ruled Thursday that the treasury has been given 60 days to determine how much Mr. Zuma should repay.

One of the earliest reactions to the ruling described the judgment as a victory for the opposition. The ruling it was said, would be a stepping stone to push for Zuma’s impeachment.

In a statement, SA government indicated it would “reflect” on the judgement and take “appropriate action”.

Similarly, in her response, Spokeswoman of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) said the party’s top six officials, which include Zuma and his Deputy, Cyril Ramaphosa, would meet to discuss the implications of the ruling.
The embattled President has been acused of using “ill-gotten wealth” to upgrade his home with a swimming pool and amphitheatre. Zuma has however denied any wrongdoing.

Consequently, an anti-corruption body – Public Protector, alleged in 2014 that Zuma has expended the sum of $23m (£15m) on his rural home in Nkandla in South Africa KwaZulu-Natal province.

Despite the call for the same, Mr Zuma has refused to bow to throw in the towel.