Not only did former deputy president Jacob Zuma pay a high political price this week when President Thabo Mbeki fired him, but he also faces losses which will soon hurt his pocket.

Zuma loses his salary package of about R870 000 and will also lose his full-time security team and entourage, his chauffeurs and his official residence. He will also forfeit the state's contribution to his medical aid as well as life assurance.

In terms of the cabinet members' code of ethics, Zuma and his family have to vacate his official residence in Pretoria within a month of the expiry of his term of office. Presidential spokesman Bheki Khumalo said on Wednesday that Frank Chikane, director-general of the presidency, and Zuma would soon discuss the details of this move.

There had been no response from the government to inquiries at the time of going to press last night.

With acknowledgements to News24 and The Natal Witness.