🇿🇦South AfricaSouthern Africa
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla terrorism trial resumes with focus on 'we see you' posts
via The Citizen2 min read
The terrorism trial of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, a former uMkhonto weSizwe MK party MP, resumed at the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Durban on Monday, April 13, 2026. Zuma-Sambudla faces charges of incitement to commit terrorism and incitement to commit violence, stemming from the July 2021 unrest that followed her father, former president Jacob Zuma’s imprisonment. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges. A key point of contention during Monday's proceedings was the interpretation of the phrase “we see you,” frequently used by Zuma-Sambudla on social media. Her legal representative, Dali Mpofu, argued it is a direct English translation of an isiZulu greeting. However, social media law expert Emma Sadleir acknowledged the literal translation but stated that the phrase takes on a different meaning in digital contexts, both in South Africa and internationally. Sadleir clarified that she never stated “we see you” has a connotation of violence, but noted that in posts depicting violence, the recognition, appreciation, and gratitude expressed could be directed towards that violence. The format of Sadleir’s findings was also debated, with Mpofu previously arguing her memorandum should be dismissed. Under re-examination, Sadleir defended her submission, asserting its independence and unbiased nature, and stating that all evidence was obtained from publicly available sources. The trial is scheduled to continue on Tuesday, April 14.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Citizen.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has launched an independent investigation into allegations that teaching posts within the department are being sold for money and sexual favors. The probe was initiated after a viral social media video surfaced, reportedly showing the wife of the department's head of communications, Muzi Mahlambi, accusing him of involvement in these activities. In the video, she claims female teachers either paid money or exchanged sexual favors to secure employment. Head of Department Nkosinathi Ngcobo ordered the independent investigation, emphasizing that the department views these allegations seriously as they impact public administration integrity and public trust. The department stated the investigation will be fair, credible, and impartial, considering all relevant evidence without fear or prejudice. They urged the public to provide any credible information to the investigating body or law enforcement authorities, committing to act decisively on the findings.
The MK party has defended its decision to appoint eThekwini's former mayor Zandile Gumede as the party's deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, despite her ongoing trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to a R320 million Durban Solid Waste tender. Gumede's appointment was announced at a press briefing in Durban. MK party secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo stated that the party is a political organization and not prosecutors, and therefore, criminal cases do not prevent a member from joining or taking a position. He added that questions about Gumede's legal issues are not relevant to her appointment. Political analyst Theo Neethling noted that Gumede's defection is significant because she remains on trial, and her charges did not hinder her acceptance by the MK party. Neethling suggests the party prioritizes electoral advantage and organizational strength over reputational risks, especially in securing metropolitan strongholds like eThekwini. This approach aligns with the party's narrative, which, given its leader Jacob Zuma's own legal challenges, often portrays criminal charges as politically motivated.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa’s condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.