Former president Jacob Zuma has raised allegations of judicial bias, accusing the courts of favouring his successor, President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Speaking to scores of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party supporters outside the Johannesburg High Court on Thursday, Zuma lamented what he perceives as unfair treatment in South Africa’s legal system.
His address came as he sought to prosecute Ramaphosa, whom he accuses of being an accessory in a case against state prosecutor, Billy Downer, and journalist Karyn Maughn.
Frustration at Ramaphosa’s absence
These proceedings, ongoing for over a year with numerous delays, saw Zuma express frustration at Ramaphosa’s absence from court and the subsequent postponement.
The former statesman accused the judiciary of prejudice, alleging that the courts favour Ramaphosa and other individuals while treating him unfairly.
He cited instances where he claims to have been compelled to appear in court, even when his health was in poor condition, contrasting this with Ramaphosa’s alleged lack of accountability.
He pointed to instances where he claims to have been unfairly targeted, including his recent imprisonment for contempt of court after failing to appear before the Zondo Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, even when his health was in a precarious state.
“There is a criminal that I am trying to prosecute, but that criminal never comes to court,” Zuma said to loud applause from his supporters.
“But when it is Zuma, I have to be here no matter what. When I was in Cuba seeking medical help, my lawyers told me that the judge demanded that I come to court.”
Phala Phala farm scandal
Drawing a sharp contrast, he referenced allegations against Ramaphosa, particularly the Phala Phala farm scandal, where former state security boss Arthur Fraser accused the president of concealing foreign currency.
He charged that while Ramaphosa remains unscathed by legal proceedings, he continues to face legal battles despite his claims of innocence.
“Even when money is found on his [Ramaphosa’s] sofas, he does not come to court once. I, on the other hand, have not committed any crime; I have never even stolen a needle.”
Amidst these legal challenges, Zuma reassured his followers of his commitment to completing his agenda during his presidential tenure.
He celebrated a recent victory in the Electoral Court, which ruled in favour of the MK Party, affirming his eligibility to contest the upcoming elections.
He also criticised the Independent Electoral Commission, accusing it of bias and overreach in attempting to prevent him from participating in the May 29 general elections.
Promise to fight corruption
“A person who steals money and hides it under a mattress is allowed to contest, but I am prevented from doing so,” he said.
The former statesman concluded by promising that when his case against Ramaphosa resumes in August, the MK Party will have won the elections and be ready to govern.
He further pledged to root out corruption and promote equality, both within the government and within his party, and condemned power-hungry individuals who prioritise their interests over those of the people.
