Former president Jacob Zuma has called a halt to his testimony at the state capture inquiry, for now. After just two-and-a-half days on the stand, Zuma and his legal team cried foul.
Zuma complained of unfair “interrogation” as he was quizzed over the appointment of a high-ranking official he allegedly imposed on a state-owned company.
Former Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan testified Zuma improperly interfered in Siyabonga Gama’s appointment to lead Transnet.
“I have a problem because I’m being made to go through the details… I’m expected to remember every other detail on the work generally is done by DGs and officials,” a flustered Zuma told the commission.
Zuma’s advocate jumped to his feet after Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo indicated questioning could proceed. “My client is clearly being cross-examined,” said lawyer Muzi Sikhakhane.
“I want my client to consider his position — I advised him to come here in bona fides and I do not think I was right,” he said.
Zuma’s testimony will resume on Friday morning if an agreement between the commission and Zuma’s legal team is reached.
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Former president Jacob Zuma’s continued appearance at the Zondo commission of inquiry into state capture hangs in the balance after his legal team accused the commission of bringing their client before it “under false pretences”.
Zuma returned to the commission, headed by Deputy Chief Justice Raymond Zondo, following a lunch break and took the opportunity to voice his complaint with being questioned on issues ordinarily handled by officials or departmental director-generals…Read more here
Source: eNCA
