South Africa: Heightened security likely ahead of court appearance from the former president in Pietermaritzburg, Feb. 2

Event

Officials will likely increase security around the Pietermaritzburg High Court in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal Province, Feb. 2, ahead of former president Jacob Zuma's court appearance. The former president is currently embroiled in several private and public court cases over alleged corruption charges. Further trial dates will be announced through 2023.

Police could close roads around the court, including portions of Church Street, Symons Street, Pietermaritz Street, and Otto Street. Rallies in support of Zuma may occur at or near the court building. Security personnel will likely seek to contain or disperse any protests that materialize.

Context

Zuma is facing several corruption-related charges linked to a 1999 arms deal. He was first indicted in 2005; however, various judicial and political developments have led to a delay in the conclusion of the matter.

He is currently appearing in another court case in Pietermaritzburg, facing prosecutor advocate Billy Downer and News24 legal specialist journalist Karyn Maughan, for allegedly leaking private information about the corruption trial. Zuma's team will likely request the court delay the corruption case against him until the second case is settled.

Zuma was president of South Africa 2009-2018. In March 2018, one month after being replaced as president, he appeared in court for the first time. Zuma was found guilty of contempt of court in a separate matter and jailed in mid-2021. His incarceration sparked widespread civil unrest in KZN and Gauteng provinces July 9-18 of that year, leaving over 300 people dead and causing significant economic damage. There is a possibility that any further judgments against Zuma could spark a repeat of the 2021 unrest.

Zuma's legal action has also enflamed tensions between rival factions of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) party, one supportive of current President Cyril Ramaphosa and another supportive of Zuma. The former and current presidents are also involved in a private case against each other, further dividing the ANC.

Advice

Exercise caution near the court building Feb. 2. Avoid all protests. Plan for ground travel delays in the vicinity. Heed the instructions of local officials.