South African ex- Prez Jacob Zuma charged with corruption
Durban, April 6: Former South African president Jacob Zuma came out fighting on Friday after appearing in court to face corruption charges over a suspect multi- billion dollar 1990s arms deal.
Mr Zuma was composed in the dock wearing a dark suit, white shirt and red tie as about 1,000 cheering supporters rallied outside to protest against the prosecution that has deepened political divisions.
The ex- President, who was forced to resign just seven weeks ago, has been charged with 16 counts of graft stemming from an arms c o n t r a c t d a t i n g back to before he b e c a m e President.
After just 15 minutes of legal discussions in the packed courtroom A of the Durban High Court, the case was adjourned until June 8 by judge Themba Sishi.
Mr Zuma, surrounded by a large entourage, left the courtroom to address his supporters, telling them that the charges were “politically motivated”.