Former deputy president Jacob Zuma pleaded not guilty in the Johannesburg High Court on Monday morning to raping a woman at his home on November 2 last year.

In a statement handed to Judge Willem van der Merwe, Zuma admitted to sex with the complainant, but denied rape.

Zuma said the complainant visited his home and willingly stayed over for the night.

He said he and the women had sexual intercourse that lasted for some time. At no stage did the woman say "no" or say she was having intercourse against her will. Zuma said she had a cellphone with her and his daughter was in the house throughout the night. He said the woman had made similar allegations against other men in the past.

The State then applied for an order that the complainant's testimony be heard in camera. Zuma's counsel said they would not oppose the order. The order will bar the public from hearing her evidence, but allow accredited members of the media into the court.

Fifteen friends and family members identified by the complainant, as well as 15 of Zuma's friends and family would also be allowed in the court. Zuma still has to identify whom he wants to remain in court.

The complainant has a veto over Zuma's choice. Once argument on the matter has been heard and the list drawn up and agreed upon, the judge will make it an order. The order also prohibits the media from identifying the woman in any way.

Zuma entered Court 4E in the Johannesburg High Court building shortly before 10am on Monday. He was wearing a fawn coloured suit and was flanked by at least seven body guards.

People entering the court had to pass three security checks. Police lined the corridors, and prohibited reporters from sending SMS messages.

Both sides' legal teams were present and the first two rows of the gallery were taken up with supporters of the former deputy president, and the woman who laid the charge against him.

Zuma is alleged to have raped a close family friend at his home in Forest Town in Johannesburg in November. Liesl Gerntholtz, speaking at the One-in-Nine campaign earlier, said that rape cases usually start with testimony from the complainant and then she can choose whether the trial is held in an open court or not.

 With acknowledgement to Sapa.