The KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Pietermaritzburg rules that the corruption trial over South Africa’s arms deal involving former president Jacob Zuma and French arms company Thales must proceed. Multiple reports say the court rejects additional delay efforts after a long history of postponements and legal challenges spanning decades. In its decision, the court orders Zuma and Thales to prepare for an immediate start of the trial, with legal experts cited as saying the ruling is justified and that the case should move forward.
One report notes the court’s finding that Zuma used “Stalingrad tactics” to delay proceedings, reflecting the judge’s view that the litigation has been prolonged by repeated attempts to avoid or postpone trial.
Across the coverage, the central point is consistent: despite ongoing challenges and the case’s delay record, the High Court directs that the arms deal corruption matter will not be further deferred, and trial preparation should continue so the case can be heard.
