Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla terrorism trial resumes with focus on 'we see you' posts

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.