Decision To Drop Charges Against Jacob Zuma Was Irrational

Johannesburg - Mmusi Maimane says the high court finding that there were no valid reasons for dropping corruption charges against Jacob Zuma in 2009 is a victory not only for the DA, but for democracy and the rule of law.
It meant in effect that South Africa had a president who “faces a criminal process”, said the DA leader, who was in the North Gauteng High Court when it handed down its judgment yesterday.
“We've always maintained that the decision to drop charges against Jacob Zuma was irrational.
“We welcome the fact that they must be continued, and (Zuma) can have what he has always wanted, which is his day in court.”
The DA's federal chairman, James Selfe, said the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) would have to decide whether to reinstate the charges.
“The NPA and the president can rely on taxpayers’ money to bring litigation. I think they will almost certainly take it on appeal.
“But this was a unanimous decision by a full bench of the high court and I’m not sure whether the Supreme Court of Appeal will find anyother grounds for appeal.”The ANC said the court had not made any findings against the president himself.
“It is important to note the court did not deal with the merits of any allegations against President Zuma, nor did it make any finding declaring guilt on any matter against President Zuma,” said spokesman Zizi Kodwa.
“Today’s judgment was solely a judicial review of an administrative action taken by the NPA as allowed for in our law.
“We trust that it shall therefore not be used by any in our society to infer any culpability in any crime or offence by the president.”
The Presidency said while Zuma would consider the judgment, it did not mean there was any litigation against him.
The NPA said it would decide the way forward after careful consideration.
Former president Thabo Mbeki’s office was studying the judgment and would decide whether to comment on it, spokesman Mukoni Ratshitanga said.
The Council for the Advancement of the SA Constitution (Casac), of which former NPA head Vusi Pikoli is a founding member, said the judgment meant the charges had to be reinstated.
Spokesman Lawson Naidoo said: “Casac’s view is that the only logical and sound interpretation of the ruling is that it restores the situation as it was immediately before the decision to discontinue the charges was taken - namely, that President Zuma is indicted with numerous serious charge.”THE IOL NEWS