Zuma’s Daughter to Face Court Over Role in SA Riots – Reports

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, is expected to appear in court over her alleged role in the violent riots that shook the country in July 2021, reports indicate.

Authorities accuse Zuma-Sambudla of inciting unrest through social media posts during the protests, which erupted after her father’s imprisonment for contempt of court. The riots, considered among the worst in South Africa’s democratic history, led to more than 350 deaths and widespread destruction of property, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng provinces.

At the time, Zuma-Sambudla actively posted messages in apparent support of the protests, sparking allegations that she encouraged violence. Critics claimed she used her platform to fuel public outrage, while her supporters insist she merely expressed solidarity with her father’s followers.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has reportedly built a case against her as part of broader efforts to hold key instigators accountable. Several other individuals have already been arrested and charged with incitement related to the riots.

Zuma-Sambudla has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, insisting she was exercising her right to free speech. Her legal team is expected to challenge any charges brought against her, arguing there is no direct evidence linking her to acts of violence.

The case is likely to reignite political tensions, especially among Zuma’s loyalists, who have long claimed that he and his family are being unfairly targeted by the state.

Authorities hope that prosecuting alleged instigators will deter similar unrest in the future, as South Africa continues to grapple with economic hardship and political divisions.

Officials have yet to confirm the exact date of Zuma-Sambudla’s court appearance.