Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former South African president Jacob Zuma, has decried what she describes as systemic injustice and political persecution against her father and herself.
This comes after Zuma-Sambudla appeared in the Durban Magistrate's Court on Thursday and was charged with incitement to commit terrorism and two counts of incitement to commit public violence, linked to the deadly July 2021 riots that led to more than 300 deaths.
In a statement, she emphasised her unwavering resolve to resist intimidation, asserting that South Africa's legal system remains an instrument of oppression against those who challenge the status quo.
"South Africa is a land rich in history, culture, and resilience, yet it remains shackled by injustice and systemic oppression," Zuma-Sambudla said.
She likened her father's current legal troubles to the apartheid-era persecution of black South Africans, arguing that, despite being labelled a democracy, the country's institutions continue to serve the interests of the powerful elite.
"During apartheid, our people were imprisoned without trial. Today, under the pretence of democracy, my father, President Jacob Zuma, is subjected to the same injustice."
Zuma-Sambudla, who has long maintained her silence, expressed her frustration at witnessing her father’s prolonged vilification.
"For years, I remained silent, even when my father was attacked, ridiculed, and insulted. I endured the pain of witnessing his political persecution while standing by as the daughter of a statesman.
''However, enough is enough! I refuse to be silent any longer. I will stand up for my father as any loving daughter would. Like my mother, Kate, I will fiercely protect my father, my family, and our people with the strength, love, and resilience instilled in me," she said.
The charges brought against her four years after an alleged offence, she contended, are nothing more than an attempt to silence her.
"I will not be silenced! This is not just about me; it is about the continued assault on our people, our leaders, and our struggle for total liberation. I will not submit, I will fight to the end."
Expressing gratitude to her legal team, the leadership of the MK Party, members of the National High Command, MK KwaZulu-Natal, MK Women's League, MK Youth League, and the commanders on the ground who stood in solidarity with her at her court appearance, Zuma-Sambudla noted the overwhelming support she has received from the African continent and international allies.
"Your unwavering support fuels my determination," she said.
Recalling past courtroom experiences, she highlighted the long-standing legal battles her father has faced, including his acquittal in a rape trial and the prolonged corruption case against him.
"This is not my first encounter with the courtroom. Since 2005, I have witnessed firsthand how our legal system is weaponised for political ends. I first entered a courtroom as a witness in my father's wrongful rape case - a case where he was acquitted. I later sat in the gallery as he faced corruption charges, which have dragged on for years without resolution.
''Now, I sit in the dock as an accused, facing politically motivated charges. I wear these charges as a badge of honour, because I know that I stand on the right side of history."
Zuma-Sambudla first appearance at court is scheduled for March.
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