News

South Africa’s Constitutional Court Upholds Zuma’s Prison Sentence

July 15, 2023

1 min read

south africa constitutional court Cape Town

In a significant ruling, South Africa’s Constitutional Court has rejected an attempt to overturn the Supreme Court of Appeal’s decision that former President Jacob Zuma must return to prison. This decision has sparked speculation on whether Zuma will find himself behind bars again.

Constitutional Court’s Ruling

The Constitutional Court handed down the ruling on Thursday, dismissing the department’s appeal with costs. Zuma had applied for leave to intervene after missing the appeal deadline, but the apex court also dismissed his application with costs, indicating there would be no appeal.

Zuma’s Legal Troubles

Zuma’s legal troubles began in July 2021 when he was incarcerated for failing to comply with the court’s order to testify before the Zondo Commission. His arrest led to widespread protests, resulting in the death of at least 337 people.

Department of Correctional Services’ Response

The Department of Correctional Services is studying the Constitutional Court’s decision on Zuma’s medical parole placement review application and has promised to comment further in due course.

Jacob Zuma Foundation’s Reaction

The Jacob Zuma Foundation has denounced reports claiming that the Constitutional Court ordered Zuma to return to jail, calling them “malicious, misleading, and hateful.”

Democratic Alliance’s Support

The Democratic Alliance has publicly supported the Constitutional Court’s decision, and its leader, John Steenhuisen, has urged Zuma to surrender for arrest voluntarily within a reasonable timeframe. Zuma still faces nearly 800 charges of fraud, corruption, and racketeering.

The Broader Context

The case against Zuma is part of South Africa’s ongoing fight against corruption and efforts to strengthen the rule of law. The Constitutional Court’s decision to uphold the SCA’s ruling reinforces the message that no one is above the law, even a former president.

Upholding Democratic Values

The ruling underscores the significance of an independent and impartial judiciary in preserving democratic values and principles. The courts’ role in safeguarding the rule of law remains a crucial component of South Africa’s progress towards a more equitable future.

Preserving the Majesty of Table Mountain: A Call to Action

Table Mountain, a stunning icon of Cape Town, is facing a troubling rise in crime that threatens the safety of both locals and tourists. The advocacy group Take Back Our Mountains is calling for urgent action to create a safety plan that protects hikers and preserves this cherished landmark. As robberies cast a shadow over the mountain’s beauty, the community is eager for solutions to restore peace and confidence on the trails. With growing concerns echoing through social media, it’s clear that everyone must work together to ensure that Table Mountain remains a safe haven for all who wish to enjoy its breathtaking views.

South Africa’s Marriage Law Revolution: A New Era of Equality and Inclusion

South Africa is making big changes to its marriage laws, aiming for fairness and inclusion. The new Marriage Bill wants to raise the legal marriage age from 18 to 21 and officially recognize samesex marriages. This is part of a plan to bring together different marriage rules into one law that respects the country’s rich culture. Many people are discussing whether 21 is a better age for marriage, as they believe it gives young adults more time to grow and prepare. These changes show South Africa’s commitment to equality and adapting to modern values while honoring its diverse traditions.

Latest from Blog

The Debate Over Starlink’s Entry into South Africa: Technological Potential vs. Regulatory Hurdles

The entry of Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, into South Africa is facing tough challenges due to local laws that require foreign companies to partner with local investors. Critics argue that these rules slow down internet access, especially in rural areas. Supporters, like former politician Tony Leon, believe that easing these regulations could boost technology and improve relations with the U.S. However, Starlink recently withdrew its application to operate in the country, raising concerns about how South Africa can attract foreign investment while addressing historical inequalities. This debate highlights the struggle between supporting local interests and embracing new technology for a better future.

Unmasking the Veil: The Hidden Campaign of the Trump Administration

The Trump administration’s costcutting efforts, led by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), are shrouded in mystery, raising alarms about honesty in government. With major cuts to global aid, especially in health and education, trust in the administration is fading. Many worry that the figures reported as savings are misleading, and the lack of detailed information on contracts only adds to the confusion. As legal battles unfold, the need for clear communication and accountability becomes even more urgent, reminding us that open governance is crucial for public confidence.

Major Supermarkets Recall Heartland Foods Cereals: A Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Major supermarket chains like Shoprite and Checkers are recalling Heartland Foods cereals because some labels had wrong nutritional information. Even though they didn’t get any complaints, they want to be honest and keep customers safe. Shoppers can easily return the affected cereals for a full refund, no receipt needed! This recall shows how much these stores care about their customers and keeping food safe.

The South African Housing Market: A Journey Through Economic Terrain

The South African housing market is a tale of two cities. Cape Town’s home prices have shot up by 25%, attracting many buyers despite the rising cost of living, while Johannesburg’s prices have climbed more modestly at 12%, making it a tempting option for those seeking better economic stability. Many people are reconsidering where to live, with some returning to Johannesburg for a sense of comfort and affordability. As economic pressures weigh heavily, both cities tell a story of resilience and adaptation as South Africans navigate their changing world, searching for a place they can call home.

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget: A Vision for the Future

Cape Town’s ‘Invested in Hope’ Budget for 2025/26 is a big plan to help the city and its people. With R39.7 billion set aside, the budget focuses on making essential services like water and electricity more affordable for lowerincome families. Mayor Geordin HillLewis shared this vision on a sunny morning, aiming to improve community safety by adding more police officers and reshaping the city’s infrastructure. While some celebrate these changes, others express concerns about added costs and the need for better crime prevention. Overall, this budget hopes to pave the way for a brighter future for all Cape Town residents.

the ultimate mother city guide