Publication: Business Day Date: 2005-12-06 Reporter: Reporter:

Jacob Zuma Officially Charged with Rape

 

Publication 

Business Day
Date

2005-12-06

Web Link

www.bday.co.za

 

ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma has officially been charged with rape. He appeared briefly in the Johannesburg Magistrates Court this morning.

Speaking to a Johannesburg radio station, Zuma’s lawyer Michael Hulley, confirmed that the former deputy president had been charged.

He said his client would release a detailed statement later in the day.

"After due consideration for the facts in the relevant case docket, the National Prosecuting Authority has decided that Jacob Zuma be arrainged in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s court on a charge of rape," the National Prosecutions Authority said in a statement.

Speculation is rife that Zuma could take a leave of absence from the party, but it is expected that his future plans will be made clear in the promised statement.

A 31-year-old Aids activist has accused the former president of rape, but he has denied this.

Hulley said he consulted with police before Zuma was whisked to the Johannesburg Magistrates Court.

The case has been postponed until February 13.

With ackowledgements to Business Day.