Amnesty International South Africa calls for calm and restraint following former President Jacob Zuma’s surrender to the South African Police Service and his detention at a correctional services facility in KwaZulu-Natal.
“Due process must be allowed to take its course and the Constitution, and the law upheld. Former President Zuma handing himself over goes a long way, in showing that no one is above the law in South Africa,” says AISA’s Executive Director Shenilla Mohamed.
“Respect for the rule of law is essential for the promotion and protection of human rights and must be upheld without fear or favour. We call on all parties involved to show restraint and remain calm during this time,” adds Mohamed.
Background
Zuma handed himself over to authorities in KwaZulu-Natal on the evening of 8 July 2021. This after the Constitutional Court found that he was guilty of contempt of court and sentenced him to 15 months in prison.
Zuma approached the Pietermaritzburg High Court on 6 July in a bid to have the execution of that order stayed, pending his application for the rescission of the Constitutional Court’s contempt ruling. The high court reserved judgment in the matter. The Constitutional Court will hear his rescission application on 12 July 2021.
For more information or to request an interview please call
Sibusiso Khasa, Campaigner, Amnesty International South Africa:+27 73 449-6871 or email sibusiso.khasa@amnesty.org.za
Public Document
Amnesty International South Africa, 97 Oxford Road, Saxonwold, Johannesburg, 2196
