Zuma out of ANC structures
2005-06-21 09:06
Cape Town - Former deputy president Jacob Zuma has asked the African National Congress national working committee (NWC) to withdraw his participation from all ANC structures until after his court case.
This follows an announcement by the national prosecuting authority that Zuma will appear in court in Durban later this week on corruption charges.
The NWC said on Monday evening it had agreed to Zuma's request.
He would, however, remain ANC deputy president.
The committee added that there was "no rightwing clique within the ANC".
"Leaders and members of the ANC do not engage in political conspiracy or intrigue."
President Thabo Mbeki last week "released" Zuma from his position as the country's deputy president.
Parties welcome decision
The presidency said NPA head Vusi Pikoli had informed Mbeki of the decision to charge Zuma.
"The president hopes that all South Africans will allow the law to take its course," a statement said.
Political parties across the spectrum have welcomed the decision to charge Zuma, saying it will give him his
long-awaited "day in court".
But the Congress of SA Trade Unions warned against appointing a judge from a "controversial" background.
"We hope that in appointing a judge, the authorities will be sensitive to some of the issues raised during the Shaik trial and not select a judge with a controversial background," it said.
- SAPA