South Africa President Jacob Zuma is in news again for all the wrong reasons.
Zuma has been quizzed for four hours under oath over his friendship with a wealthy Indian family, who are accused of influencing political appointments, in the final investigation by an anti-graft chief.
Public Protector Thuli Madonsela spoke to Zuma and his lawyers behind closed doors over allegations that the Gupta family played a role in selecting cabinet members and whether he abused his power to ensure they benefited from state contracts.
Madonsela’s office said Zuma’s lawyers argued that the inquiry should be deferred to her successor, Busisiwe Mkhwebane, who was confirmed by the President earlier on October 6th.
“The President and his advisers further advised that the President had not had time to prepare answers,” Madonsela’s office said, adding that the Public Protector wrote to Zuma about the allegations against him on March 22nd.
Her findings are due to be released by October 14th, the day before her seven-year term comes to an end.
The Guptas deny any wrongdoing and say they have been victims of a “sustained political attack”.
