Ruling ordering Zuma to repay legal fees demonstrates no one is above the law - DA

The Democratic Alliance (DA) said the court ruling ordering former President Jacob Zuma to repay nearly R29 million in legal fees demonstrates that no one is above the law.

Zuma faced another legal defeat in the Gauteng High Court on Wednesday, which determined he is responsible for his legal costs in the arms deal corruption case.

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The State attorney had paid Zuma’s legal bills, despite the charges relating to his personal capacity.

Zuma had argued in court that the corruption case arose from his time as deputy president and that the State was entitled to cover his defence.

The Gauteng High Court ruled that in addition to the legal fees, Zuma must also pay the interest accumulated on his debt to the State.

The court also ruled that his pension is among the assets that can be attached to recover the R28.9 million in legal fees owed to the State.

DA spokesperson Willie Aucamp said the ruling further highlighted Zuma’s tendency to misuse public funds during his presidency.

"We look forward to seeing Mr Zuma repay what he owed to South Africa, starting with a first amount of R28.9 million plus interest, thereon."

Zuma is expected to outline his next steps and share his response to the judgment at an MK Party media briefing in Durban on Thursday afternoon.