South Africa: Heightened security likely in Piermaritzburg for former president's trial Aug. 10-13

Event

Officials will almost certainly deploy additional security force personnel to the Pietermaritzburg High Court in Pietermaritzburg (PMB), KwaZulu-Natal Province Aug. 10-13 coinciding with the resumption of the corruption trial of former President Jacob Zuma.

Officials will almost certainly close roads near the court building and establish enhanced screening measures during the hearings. Supporters of Zuma may attempt to protest during the trial. Demonstrations could occur near the court building or near the Estcourt Correctional Center where Zuma is currently incarcerated. Should protests occur there is a threat of confrontations between demonstrators and the police.

Context

The trial relates to a 1990s arms deal and is separate from a recent Constitutional Court decision to jail the former president for contempt of court. The incarceration of Zuma sparked violent unrest across portions of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces July 9-17 which left over 300 people dead. The previous trial session relating to the arms deal, which ended July 20, was held virtually. While the hearing was held online, officials deployed a heightened security presence at the Pietermaritzburg High Court in anticipation of protests; none materialized. A decision on whether the trial will resume virtually or physically has yet to be made; however, regardless of the outcome, security measures are unlikely to be impacted given the high-profile nature of the trial.

Advice

Consider avoiding the vicinity of the Pietermaritzburg High Court during trial sessions. Exercise caution in Estcourt during trial periods. Heed instructions of security forces. Avoid all protests.