HIGH COURT JUDGEMENT A VICTORY FOR JUSTICE

The African National Congress (ANC) welcomes the decision of the Pietermaritzburg High Court today (13 September 2008) to declare the charges brought against ANC President Jacob Zuma invalid.

It is a victory for justice and the constitution.

The ANC calls on all South Africans and state institutions to respect the judgement handed down by Judge Chris Nicholson. It vindicates our view and further confirms the established position that the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) acted as though it was a law unto itself with undue political interference, and that Jacob Zuma was not responsible for the delays in prosecution.

We have always maintained that throughout the investigation and prosecution of this case Zuma has had his rights repeatedly violated by the NPA.

This case has been commented upon extensively, wrongly and in a skewed fashion, unfairly subjecting our president to the torture of public condemnation, undue prejudicial delay and violating his right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.

We believe that our president has been a subject of a vindictive prosecution.

The ANC extends its appreciation to the public, and members and supporters of the ANC and democratic movement who demonstrated their principled and disciplined support for the ANC President throughout this process. We commend the manner in which they have conducted themselves.

Statement issued by Jessie Duarte, National Spokesperson of the African National Congress, September 12 2008