By Marcus Moloko
The Jacob Zuma Foundation has warned against unauthorized online fundraising initiatives aimed at covering former President Jacob Zuma’s legal costs.
This comes after a Pretoria High Court ruling ordered Zuma to repay R28.9 million, including interest, to the state for legal fees incurred during his personal criminal prosecution regarding the 1999 arms deal corruption case.
In a statement, the foundation stated it had not sanctioned any fundraising efforts.
“While we appreciate the goodwill of those involved, the Foundation has not authorised any fundraising campaigns of this nature,” the statement read.
It further states that a formal response to the recent judgment will only be made after consultations with Zuma’s legal team.
The court’s ruling enforces an earlier judgment that declared the state was not liable for Zuma’s personal legal costs.
Zuma’s appeal was dismissed by the Supreme Court of Appeal in 2021.
Initially, the state sought R18.2 million, but further audits revealed an additional R10.7 million in legal expenditures, bringing the total to R28.9 million.
Should Zuma fail to settle the amount within 60 days, the state is authorized to issue a writ of execution, potentially targeting his assets, which include portions of his presidential pension.
The Foundation’s statement also warned that unauthorized fundraising efforts could lead to confusion and misrepresentation.
“We respectfully request all well-wishers and supporters to await the Foundation’s official announcement,” the foundation clarified.
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