Trial against former president postponed again in South Africa

Havana, April 17 (RHC) - The South African Pietermaritzburg High Court has again postponed today, until August 15 this year, the long-delayed trial of former President Jacob Zuma in a case of alleged fraud and corruption.

The trial over a late 1990s arms purchase deal against French manufacturer Thales resumed this morning with Judge Nkosinathi Chili presiding over the case, after previous counsel Piet Koen recused himself earlier this year.

Zuma faces charges including fraud, corruption and money laundering.

The trial was postponed again over arguments related to Zuma's request that the lead prosecutor, Billy Downer, be removed from the proceedings.

The defense request was based on the private prosecution Zuma brought against Downer for allegedly leaking confidential medical information to the press.

Both Downer and journalist Karyn Maughan, whom Zuma is also privately prosecuting, filed requests to have the suit against them investigated and dismissed. (Source: Prensa Latina)