The DA has called for the immediate detention of Jacob Zuma after the former statesman suffered another legal setback on Thursday.
The Constitutional Court dismissed the Department of Correctional Services’ bid to overturn a decision granting Zuma medical parole, stating that the department’s former commissioner’s action was unlawful.
Zuma has been embroiled in a series of legal battles and corruption allegations stemming from his tenure in office. Despite the legal setbacks, he has denied any wrongdoing.
Reacting to the judgment, DA leader John Steenhuisen expressed his satisfaction, emphasizing that it confirmed the need for Zuma’s incarceration.
Steenhuisen said he has instructed his party’s legal team to draft papers compelling Zuma to surrender himself to the authorities or face arrest.
He further called on Department of Correctional Services commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, to fulfill his constitutional duty and act in line with the court’s judgment.
He warned that any irregular or illegal actions or attempts to delay the implementation of the ruling would be met with further legal action.
“The DA’s lawyers are currently drafting a letter, which we will submit to Mr Zuma, calling for him to voluntarily surrender himself to arrest within a reasonable timeframe,” said Steenhuisen.
“Should Mr Zuma fail to adhere to this request, we will write to the national commissioner for correctional services, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, calling for him to arrest Mr Zuma and return him to Estcourt Correctional Centre. If either one of the parties fails to comply, they will be in contempt of court.”
He stressed the importance of holding Zuma accountable for his disregard of the law, stating: “[This judgment] must also serve as an important legal precedent, ensuring that ANC members and public representatives implicated in state capture cannot abuse the medical parole process to evade accountability.”
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