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[File Image] Former President Jacob Zuma sits in the dock after recess in his corruption trial in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, May 26, 2021.
The High Court in Pietermaritzburg will today hear former President Jacob Zuma’s application for leave to appeal the court’s dismissal of his bid to have lead prosecutor Advocate Billy Downer removed from his corruption trial.
Zuma has accused Downer of bias in the case, which involves charges related to South Africa’s multi-billion-rand arms deal. Zuma is being tried alongside French arms company Thales.
This marks Zuma’s second attempt to have Downer recused from the trial. His previous bid, presided over by Judge Piet Koen, lasted more than two years.
In dismissing Zuma’s renewed recusal application last year, Judge Nkosinathi Chili said that all grounds for the application had already been reviewed by higher courts, including the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court, which ruled against Zuma.
VIDEO | Judge gives Zuma reasons for dismissing recusal bid against Downer:
Zuma continues to argue that Downer lacks impartiality, while the state is opposing the application.
The hearing will determine whether Zuma can proceed with his appeal.
TIMELINE | Jacob Zuma and the Arms Deal
