Recall beckons for Jacob Zuma after SONA 2018 postponement

(Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Jacob Zuma appoints long-awaited state capture commission

No more running, JZ

Recall beckons for Jacob Zuma after SONA 2018 postponement

(Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

After being told to establish a commission to investigate the role of state capture, Jacob Zuma has relented, hailing a significant step forward in the inquiry’s progress.

On 14 December 2017, Zuma was given 30 days by the North Gauteng High Court to set up a commission on this issue. As reported by News24, he confirmed that he had followed the instruction, through a statement late on Tuesday evening – 26 days after the court’s judgement.

State capture commission up and running

The statement acknowledged the 2016 State of Capture report by former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela. Since she recommended the path of remedial action, JZ has been a frequent visitor to court, attempting to block or delay progress with an inquiry.

However, Zuma’s stubborn resolve seems to have worn thin, as he conceded that there was no way around the investigation taking place:

“Pursuant to the investigation and remedial action of the Public Protector regarding complaints and allegations of the State of Capture, as well as the orders issued by the North Gauteng High Court in its judgement of 14 December 2017, I have decided to appoint a commission of inquiry.”

Who is Raymond Zondo?

Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng was tasked with finding an impartial judge to head the inquiry. He chose his right hand man, Raymond Zondo.

Zondo is the Deputy Chief Justice. He’s been a judge since 1997, applying his gavel in Labour Court, Pretoria High Court, and a brief spell with the Constitutional Court. He certainly has the wealth of experience to navigate such a minefield of allegations.

What next for Jacob Zuma?

Zuma’s decision – more enforced than voluntary – comes as the ANC’s National Executive Committee gather for a meeting in East London today. It’s widely believed the recall of Jacob Zuma from his Head of State position will be discussed, and a decision on his future will be all but confirmed by the NEC.

It never rains, it pours, doesn’t it Jacob?