Change of legal team in Zuma trial ‘not a delay tactic’: Mabuza

Attorney Eric Mabuza of Mabuza Attorneys has denied allegations that his appointment less than a month before the much awaited corruption trial of Former Statesman Jacob Zuma, is another delay tactic.

On Sunday, the Jacob Zuma foundation announced that the former president had terminated the mandate of his attorney of record, Daniel Mantsha with immediate effect and has appointed Mabuza.

In a statement the foundation revealed that Zuma had resolved that it was in his best interest to sever ties with Mantsha so he can focus more on the preparation of ‘the biggest trial of his life’.

The former president and French arms deal company, Thales face charges of corruption, fraud and racketeering related to the multibillion rand arms deal.

In February a conditional warrant of arrest was issued against Zuma after he failed to appear in the Pietermaritzburg High Court citing ill health.

The trial had been postponed to May 6.

Speaking to Ynews, Eric Mabuza said Jacob Zuma now wants to have his day in court.

“I confirm that I have been appointed to represent former president Jacob Zuma in the coming trial in the Pietermaritzburg High Court , I deny categorically that my appointment is another strategy to delay the trial,” said Mabuza.

He added that the scheduled date of May 6 would not be the official start of the trial but rather, to arrange further dates for the trial.

“Infact we should accept the bona fides of former president Zuma that he now wants to go to trial and have his day in court, so there is nothing we are doing which is aimed at delaying the trial. We are now preparing to make sure we are ready for the trial, once we have agreed on the date for the trial.”

Zuma has however retained the services of Advocate Muzi Sikhakhane SC, as the lead counsel in the matter.