Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla Faces Charges of Incitement to Commit Terrorism and Public Violence Stemming from 2021 Unrest
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Thursday facing multiple criminal charges, including incitement to commit terrorism and public violence. These charges arise from her alleged involvement during the July 2021 unrest that shook South Africa following her father’s imprisonment.
The court released Zuma-Sambudla on a warning after the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) opted not to oppose bail. This decision stemmed from her voluntary surrender, the verification of her residential address, and her cooperative conduct throughout the investigation.
The Charges and Context
The charges against Zuma-Sambudla relate to her alleged use of social media to incite violence during the unrest. The State accuses her of leveraging her Twitter platform, where she had over 100,000 followers at the time, to encourage activities such as road blockages, arson, and attacks on infrastructure.
In court, the prosecution highlighted that her social media posts were part of a broader effort to pressure authorities into releasing Jacob Zuma, who had been sentenced to 15 months of imprisonment by the Constitutional Court for contempt. The unrest resulted in widespread violence and looting, primarily in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, leaving a devastating toll on the economy and social cohesion.
A Complex and Unprecedented Case
Speaking to journalists outside the court, NPA spokesperson Advocate Mthunzi Mhaga described the case as “complex in nature,” citing the reliance on expert analysis of social media content. According to Mhaga, the investigation required outsourced expertise to authenticate posts, interpret emojis, and analyze digital evidence.
“This is the first time the NPA is charging a person based on content posted on social media that amounts to incitement to commit terrorism,” Mhaga stated. He dismissed allegations that the case was politically motivated, emphasizing that the delays in prosecution were due to the technical complexities involved.
Court Proceedings and Public Support
The courtroom saw a strong turnout of supporters, including prominent members of the MK Party and Zuma-Sambudla’s father, Jacob Zuma. Political figures such as MKP secretary-general Floyd Shivambu and provincial leader Willies Mchunu were present, along with her twin brother, Duduzane Zuma.
Represented by Advocate Dali Mpofu, Zuma-Sambudla intends to plead not guilty to all charges. She stated that the State lacks evidence linking her to the alleged offences. Her attorney argued that she has no prior convictions and poses no risk to public safety.
Despite her claim of being unable to afford R3,000 for bail, Magistrate Irfaan Khalil released her on a warning. The case has been postponed to March 28, 2025, and will be transferred to the KwaZulu-Natal High Court in Durban.
What’s Next?
The case against Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla sets a legal precedent for holding individuals accountable for inciting violence through social media. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for how social media content is interpreted and prosecuted in South Africa.
For now, Zuma-Sambudla remains at the centre of a politically charged case that continues to gain national attention.
Also read: Nersa Approves 12.7% Eskom Tariff Hike for 2025—Far Below Requested 36.15% Increase
