Zuma’s fate ‘in the stars’

EMBATTLED former president Jacob Zuma will not go to jail, say astrologist Priscilla Olivier, and Durban-based sangoma (traditional healer) Makhosi Ngcobo.

Zuma is to appear in the Durban High Court on Friday, on 16 charges of fraud, corruption and racketeering.

Olivier said she studied Zuma’s date of birth and found that he would not spend time behind bars.

“Considering Zuma’s age, I believe he would gain more sympathy, especially from those close to him. His sense of spirit is childlike in that he tends to get drawn into uncomfortable situations and is quite trusting as a child would be,” said Olivier.

She also found that Zuma had a secretive personality and predicts his trial will be postponed.

“And I wouldn’t be surprised if later in the day, something surprising or unusual happens,” she said.

“Unfortunately, like many wealthy people, he will believe he is above the law and untouchable,” Olivier added.

Ngcobo, who used bones to predict Zuma’s fate, said Zuma would not go to jail.

“His case will take years to resolve. There will also be many twists in the case and the people who are pushing for the charges against him will also be implicated,” said Ngcobo.

Ngcobo, who is from Manguzi, northern KZN, said Zuma’s close allies would betray him at this time but he would find new supporters.

Indian astrologer Mahesh Bang also believes Zuma’s trial will be delayed, and brought out charts to illustrate other predictions.

“In Zuma’s chart, the moon is greatly affected by two malefic planets. Because of this, he was pushed to resign. In 2020, Saturn will transit Capricorn, inevitably causing more hurdles in Zuma’s life,” he said.

“During this period, Zuma must take care of his health. He will be acquitted on some charges and found guilty on others – parts will be prolonged for years.”

Zuma’s court appearances have always attracted much song and dance – Mshini wami (Bring my machine gun) being the main chorus, along with the burning of impepho (incense) outside court.

Impepho is an indigenous African plant that, once dried, is burnt to communicate with ancestors.

Pretty Xaba shot to public prominence for burning incense during Zuma’s rape trial, but she was cagey when asked by the Sunday Tribune whether she would attend Zuma’s court appearance this week.

The die-hard Zuma supporter was subsequently at the forefront of supporters who rallied behind him when he was faced charges of raping the late Fezekile “Khwezi” Ntsukela Kuzwayo. Zuma was acquitted in 2006.