The controversy surrounding the investigation of allegations by the National Directorate of Public Prosecutions involving Deputy President Jacob Zuma is most unedifying.

The investigation is important: it is a very bold indication that even those holding the highest public office are not immune from prosecution.

However, the disclosure of information concerning the investigation into the allegation that Zuma accepted a bribe during the arms deal is quite disturbing.

Was the leaked information merely the work of overzealous publicity-seeking officials from the directorate? Or was it part of a calculated and vindictive attempt to harm Zuma's reputation ahead of next year's elections?

Zuma is just as baffled, and in a hard-hitting statement on Sunday questioned the "real motives" of the investigators.

If the information was indeed leaked by headline-hungry officials, it does not make it any less distasteful. But at least this scenario would allay fears that the resources of the state are being abused to advance narrow political objectives.

The latest episode once again brings to mind the investigation in 2001 into the feeble allegations that Cyril Ramaphosa, Tokyo Sexwale and Mathews Phosa were involved in a plot to overthrow President Thabo Mbeki. We hope this is not a replay of that tragi-comedy.

None of this should, however, distract attention from the real issue at hand: establishing the veracity or falsehood of the allegations that Zuma was involved in impropriety. That is what should remain of central concern.

The outcome of this investigation, and how government will deal with it, is of the utmost importance for the future of democracy in this country.

The implications involve far more than the integrity of one particular individual, even if he does happen to be the country's deputy president.

With acknowledgement to the Cape Times.