Zuma accuser to testify in camera
2006-03-06 11:29
Johannesburg - The Jacob Zuma rape trial was adjourned shortly after he pleaded not guilty at Johannesburg High Court on Monday.
This was to allow court officials to choose who'll be allowed inside the court for the complainant's testimony to be held in camera.
The court was cleared and officials went around with a list ticking off the names of those who may be present when the woman who laid the rape charge recounts the alleged events of November 2.
Earlier, Zuma was charged with raping her at his home in Epping street, Forest Town in Johannesburg, home on November 2.
When asked how he pleaded, he said: "Not guilty".
The passage outside the court was filled with family members, onlookers and unaccredited journalists hoping to secure access to the testimony.
Sexual intercourse 'lasted for some time'
Journalists with the coveted orange accreditation tags expect to be granted access.
In a statement handed to Judge Willem van der Merwe, Zuma admitted to sex with the complainant but denied rape.
Zuma said the complainant had visited his home and willingly stayed over for the night.
He said he and the woman had sexual intercourse that lasted for some time.
At no stage did the woman say "no" or that she was having intercourse against her will.
Zuma said she had a cellphone with her and his daughter was in the house throughout the night.
He said the woman had made similar allegations against other men in the past.
The State then applied for an order that the complainant's testimony be heard in camera.
Public barred from hearing woman's evidence
Zuma's counsel said they would not oppose the order.
The order will bar the public from hearing her evidence, but allow accredited members of the media into the court.
Fifteen friends and family members identified by the complainant, as well as 15 of Zuma's friends and family would also be allowed in the court.
Zuma still has to identify whom he wants to remain in court.
The complainant has a veto over Zuma's choice.
Once argument on the matter has been heard and the list drawn up and agreed upon, the judge will make it an order.
The order also prohibits the media from identifying the woman in any way.
Zuma entered Court 4E in Johannesburg High Court building shortly before 10:00 on Monday.
Reporters stopped from sending SMSes
He was wearing a fawn coloured suit and was flanked by at least seven body guards.
People entering the court had to pass three security checks. Police lined the corridors, and prohibited reporters from sending SMS messages.
Both sides' legal teams were present and the first two rows of the gallery were taken up with supporters of the former deputy president, and the woman who laid the charge against him.
Liesl Gerntholtz, speaking at the One-in-Nine campaign earlier, said that rape cases usually start with testimony from the complainant and then she can choose whether the trial is held in an open court or not.
- SAPA