Judge Nkosinathi Chili criticised repeated delays, describing them as “Stalingrad tactics” that undermine the administration of justice.
EMMANUEL CROSET / AFP
Former president Jacob Zuma and French arms company Thales South Africa have suffered another blow in their bid to halt the start of their corruption trial.
The Pietermaritzburg High Court has ruled that the trial must finally proceed.
Zuma and Thales face charges linked to South Africa’s multi-billion-rand arms procurement deal from the late 1990s.
Zuma, 84, was not present for the judgement. A trial date has yet to be set.
He is separately accused of enabling the looting of state assets during his tenure.
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Court condemns postponements
Judge Nkosinathi Chili found that Zuma had repeatedly used what courts have termed “Stalingrad tactics” or legal manoeuvres aimed at delaying the start of the trial.
On Thursday morning, Judge Chili warned that further delays risk bringing the administration of justice into disrepute.
By allowing criminal trials to be postponed pending approaches to the civil courts, justice is delayed and the speedy trials for which the Constitution provides do not take place.
“I need hardly add that this is of a particular benefit to those who are well-resourced and able to secure the services of best lawyers.”
The judge says the trial should proceed even if further appeals are filed.
The fraud and corruption trial will start from 1 February 2027.
Chili has directed Zuma and a representative to appear in court.
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