Huge Zuma 'vigil' expected

2006-09-04 19:37

Pietermaritzburg - Thousands of former deputy president Jacob Zuma's supporters were expected to converge overnight to support him as he faces corruption charges on Tuesday in one of South Africa's most-explosive trials yet.

The trial comes as Zuma has stepped up his campaign to succeed President Thabo Mbeki when he steps down in 2009, arguing that the accusations are a political plot to destroy him and that the case should be thrown out.

Prosecutors allege Zuma accepted at least R1.2m in bribes from his close friend and financial adviser Shabir Shaik, to fund an extravagant lifestyle.

R52.7bn arms deal

The prosecution also maintains Zuma was aware of Shaik's efforts to secure him a yearly payment of R500 000 from French arms trading company Thint Holdings, previously known as Thomson CSF International France.

This apparently was to deflect corruption investigations related to a R52.7bn deal to buy ships, submarines, helicopters, jets and other arms from European and South African firms in 1999.

Zuma, 64, was fired as South Africa's deputy president last year after Shaik was found guilty of corruption and sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment. Shaik is to appeal against that verdict in late September.

Zuma's case originally was scheduled for July, but was delayed by prosecutors asking for more time to study documents submitted by the defence.

Prosecutors want the trial postponed until next year, saying their investigations have been hindered by defence appeals including ones challenging the legality of key police raids, and the need to get evidence from Mauritius.

The defence objects to any further postponement, saying dragging out the case could damage Zuma's chances of campaigning for the presidency.

Lawyers for Zuma and co-defendant Thint have filed for the case to be dismissed, citing unreasonable delays.

Prosecutors had launched a probe into Zuma's role when the arms scandal allegations first surfaced, and announced in August 2003 that while there was evidence against him, the case was not winnable.

Prosecutors revisited the case after Shaik was convicted and brought charges.

Zuma's supporters say he is being victimised.

10 000 supporters expected

Zuma has used his position as deputy leader of the African National Council to garner support recently.

The secretary-general of the KwaZulu-Natal ANC, Senzo Mchunu, said up to 10 000 people were expected outside the courthouse for a night vigil and to support Zuma on Tuesday.

Only about 3 000 supporters showed up for Zuma's last court appearance.

- AP