President Thabo Mbeki did not approve of Nkobi as a partner in the arms deal, court documents have revealed.

This is according to a charge sheet against Schabir Shaik. Mbeki was deputy president at the time.

"During this period Thomson was wracked by uncertainties over the 'suitability' of their political contacts in South Africa, as well as the 'political correctness' of their partners in African Defence Systems."

This was seemingly due to rumours they had received at the time that Mbeki did not approve of Nkobi as a partner.

On March 17 1998, Schabir Shaik conveyed to Jean-Paul Perrier, the head of Thomson CSF International, Jacob Zuma's wish to meet with him to address this issue.   

"Shamin ('Chippy') Shaik is Accused 1's brother and was the chief of acquisitions at the Department of Defence.

"De Bollardire (a Thomson representative) and his colleague, Thetard, met Chippy Shaik on July 9 1998.

"Chippy Shaik indicated that he would facilitate matters for Thomson if Thomson's position with partners and friends was convenient to him (Chippy Shaik). He would otherwise make things difficult.

"Chippy Shaik confirmed that Zuma would be a member of the next cabinet," the charge sheet said.

With acknowledgement to The Star.