Former deputy president Jacob Zuma hoped for a speedy trial in which he was allowed to properly present his case in court, he said on Wednesday.

"The day the State has decided to prosecute me in a proper forum has finally arrived," Zuma told reporters in Durban.

"I trust that the media and others alike will respect the process and allow me an opportunity to properly present my case in court free from undue influence and conjuncture."

Zuma said people were angry at the way he had been treated in the last five years.

"I think the anger has been basically due to the manner in which the last half decade this matter has been handled. People of this country understand that people must be protected by the Constitution. They feel that something went amiss in that one.

"For a period of five years my person has been subjected to all types of allegations and innuendo, paraded through the media and other corridors of influence without these allegations having being tested. I have thereby been denied my constitutional right to reply and defend myself. I trust that my right to a speedy trial will be observed."

Asked whether he had considered starting his own political party, as suggested by some of his broad church of supporters, Zuma said: "I am sure that is an expression of anger."

Zuma thanked the prosecution for dealing with him in a professional manner.

"I acknowledge the prosecution for the professional manner in which they have thus far interacted with both myself and my legal representatives," he said.

With acknowledgement to Sapa.