SOUTH AFRICA: The trial for rape of South Africa's former deputy president Jacob Zuma was thrown into disarray yesterday when it was claimed that the politician had fathered a child with the sister of the judge expected to hear the case.
Defence lawyers objected to the appointment of judge Jeremiah Shongwe reportedly because his sister Minah had an affair with Mr Zuma three decades ago, which produced a son, Edward, now 29. Mr Zuma (63) denies raping a 31-year-old family friend at his Johannesburg home last year. His supporters claim the case is an attempt to destroy his prospects of succeeding President Thabo Mbeki.
The trial got off to a shaky start on Monday when the presiding judge stepped down over a potential conflict of interest. He indicated that Judge Shongwe would take over, but on Tuesday defence lawyers objected and the trial was postponed until March 6th. Yesterday the Star, a Johannesburg daily, revealed the apparent reason: Judge Shongwe was the uncle of Mr Zuma's son.
Edward, whose parentage is openly acknowledged within the Zuma clan, was said to regularly attend family functions. Neither judge nor defendant were available for comment.
Some legal experts said the Johannesburg high court might struggle to find a neutral and suitably senior judge.
Mr Mbeki sacked his deputy last year after he was embroiled in a financial scandal. A corruption trial is due to start in July. Like many Zulus, Mr Zuma has two wives, in addition to a deceased wife and a divorced wife, and at least 10 children. The alleged rape victim is an Aids treatment activist who is HIV positive.