The Pietermartizburg High Court's verdict, based on a legal technicality, that the decision to prosecute Jacob Zuma was invalid must be respected. His supporters who resorted to intimidatory and violent action must understand that their behaviour had no influence on the judgment. They must also understand that their behaviour has no place in a constitutional democracy.

It is significant that Judge Nicholson stressed that this was not a judgment on Zuma's guilt or innocence. We are still no closer to knowing whether Zuma is innocent or guilty of the corruption charges brought against him.

This has deprived South Africa of an opportunity to get closer to the truth of arms deal corruption. The DA reiterates its call for a full judicial commission of inquiry into the arms deal, headed by a retired judge nominated by the Chief Justice. The truth must out and justice must be served.

Statement by Helen Zille, leader of the Democratic Alliance, September 12 2008