South Africa’s Constitutional Court, the nation’s highest judicial authority, declared former President Jacob Zuma (2009-2018) ineligible to participate in the upcoming general elections scheduled for May 29. This decision stems from Zuma’s 2021 prison sentence.
Judge Leona Theron, delivering the court’s ruling, stated, “Mr. Zuma has been convicted of an offense and sentenced to imprisonment for more than 12 months.” She further explained, “As a result, he is ineligible to be a member of the National Assembly and cannot stand for election.” This ruling, however, is subject to appeal.
This significant legal development effectively bars Zuma from re-entering the political arena in an official capacity, underscoring the judiciary’s role in upholding the rule of law in South Africa.