The Congress of South African Trade Unions has taken note of today's judgement of the Supreme Court of Appeal in Bloemfontein.

COSATU respects the Appeal Court, as it does all other courts, including that of Judge Chris Nicholson, whose judgement COSATU agreed with, but which the SCA has now overturned.

The federation will support any further appeals by Comrade Jacob Zuma.

COSATU does not believe however that today's judgement changes the basic facts, which are that it will be impossible for the ANC President to have a fair trial given the long delays and the trial by media.

COSATU remains convinced that the whole prosecution process has been politically motivated and will continue to demand the dropping of all charges.

Meanwhile we are mobilising our members behind the ANC under the leadership of Jacob Zuma to ensure another landslide election victory.

Statement issued by COSATU January 12 2009