798 days later and still no decision on Nkandla corruption charges against Zuma

26 May 2016

In a reply to a DA parliamentary question today, the Minister of Police revealed that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has yet to make a decision on whether it will proceed with corruption charges against President Zuma, laid by the DA on 20 March 2014.

The DA laid these corruption charges against Zuma 798 days ago – in terms of Prevention and Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act 12 of 2004 – following the release of the Public Protector’s report, Secure in Comfort.

Specifically, the Minister of Police was asked what the current status of the docket was, which was opened at the Nkandla Police Station regarding eight charges of corruption against the President, for his complicity in the alleged misappropriation of public funds to upgrade his personal residence at Nkandla

The Minister stated that “the Docket is still at the National Prosecuting Authority for decision” and that “the details of the investigating officer cannot be disclosed to allow the investigation to be conducted without fear or favour”.

It is extremely concerning that the NPA – an independent body – is dragging its feet in making a decision in this matter. 

We cannot afford for this matter to be dragged out – as we have seen in the Spy Tapes matter – which is now entering its 7th year in court as a result of the National Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv Shaun Abrahams, decision last week to apply for leave to appeal the High Court decision in that matter.

President Zuma must finally come to the realisation that he is not above the law, and that he must face the criminal charges that are brought against him, both in the Nkandla matter and the Spy Tapes matter.

We urge the NPA to operate independently, and without fear and favour, and make a decision without delay. 

Issued by Mabine Seabe, Spokesperson to the DA Leader, 26 May 2016