MK Party Mobilizes Support for Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla’s Durban Court Appearance Linked to 2021 Riots
The daughter of former president Jacob Zuma, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, is set to appear at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, January 30, 2025, in connection with the July 2021 riots. The MK Party, of which she is a prominent member, has urged its supporters to “mobilize all ground forces” to rally in her support.
The July 2021 Riots and Their Aftermath
The July 2021 civil unrest, described as one of the most significant periods of violence in South Africa’s democratic history, led to devastating consequences. According to a report released by the South African Human Rights Commission in February 2024, the unrest resulted in:
- 40,000 businesses impacted
- 50,000 informal traders affected
- 150,000 jobs at risk
- An estimated R50 billion in financial damages
- 353 lives lost
Although the commission found no direct link between the unrest and former president Jacob Zuma’s incarceration, it was unable to identify the key players responsible for orchestrating and financing the violence.
Zuma-Sambudla’s Role and Response
Zuma-Sambudla has been a controversial figure linked to the unrest through various statements. While the Hawks confirmed their investigation into the riots, they noted she was not directly under investigation but had been named in witness testimonies.
In a post on X, Zuma-Sambudla responded defiantly:
MK Party’s Call to Action
The MK Party, known for its loyal support of the Zuma family, has rallied behind Zuma-Sambudla. In a post on X, they announced:
“[ANNOUNCEMENT]: Hon. Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla will be appearing at the Durban Magistrates Court on the 30th of January 2025, at 09H00. This is an invitation to mobilize all ground forces to attend in numbers. #GwazaMkhontoGwaza!”
Supporters are expected to gather in Durban in large numbers to show solidarity with Zuma-Sambudla, reinforcing the party’s call for unity.
Court Appearance Details
- Date: Thursday, January 30, 2025
- Time: 09:00 AM
- Location: Durban Magistrate’s Court
This court appearance marks a significant moment in the ongoing saga surrounding the July 2021 unrest, and the outcome could have broader implications for the political landscape in South Africa.
Also read: Cyril Ramaphosa Criticized for Shielding Corruption-Accused Ministers
