It was a moment South Africans have been waiting for – on Tuesday, 29 June former president Jacob Zuma was sentenced in the highest court of the land, the ConCourt, to a 15 month jail term for walking out of the Commission of Inquiry into State Capture.
In her sentencing, Judge Sisi Khampepe, said Zuma’s behaviour was intolerable, and slammed him for repeatedly attacking the judiciary.
“Unfounded attacks on the courts cannot be met with impunity. Zuma’s attacks on the judiciary are not substantiated and are not tolerable in our democratic dispensation. The majority finds itself with little choice but to send a message that this type of “recalcitrance and defiance is unlawful and will be punished.
“This case is exceptional. Not in that Zuma is being treated exceptionally – but that the matrix of factors requires an exceptional sanction. Unfounded attacks on the courts cannot be met with impunity. Zuma’s attacks on the judiciary are not substantiated and are not tolerable in our democratic dispensation.
“The majority judgment holds that the Zuma is no ordinary litigant, but a political figure who holds great power and who could instigate others to disregard the rule of law. The ConCourt has in the past said there is a heightened responsibility on those who once held the highest office in the country to uphold the rule of law,” said Khampepe.
Social media erupted with comments of relief for some and disdain for others. Twitter is evenly split on Zuma’s sentence – some are in favour off and others against it.
“Has anyone checked that JZ is still in SA?” asked one.
“#JacobZuma I love the precedent Zumas arrest has set. It should have corrupt ANC officials shaking in their boots. If a former president can go to Prison than any of them can too!!” – said another.
“Damn Bro… Cyril really did it!! He put #JacobZuma In Jail”.
#JacobZuma broke the law in full public view Knowing well the consequences of his actions. The judiciary went to extraordinary lengths to accommodate him. He is getting what he deserves. #judgement” – read another Tweet.
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