Former South African President Jacob Zuma is expected to learn this week whether he must return to prison to complete a sentence for contempt of court.
Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in prison in 2021 after refusing to testify before a commission investigating corruption during his presidency. He served just under four months before being released on medical parole in September 2021.
However, in July 2023, the Supreme Court of Appeal ruled his release was unlawful and should be revoked. The final decision now rests with the National Commissioner of Correctional Services, who is expected to make a ruling by Thursday.
The Commissioner has three options: confirm Zuma’s medical parole under strict conditions, send the matter back to the Supreme Court of Appeal for review, or order Zuma back to prison to serve the remainder of his sentence.
Former president Jacob Zuma will know this week if he will be returning to prison. Correctional Services Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale is expected to make a decision by Thursday. Legal expert Mpumelelo Zikalala says the commissioner has three options. #QuestionThinkAct pic.twitter.com/8JBXPaiHKP
— eNCA (@eNCA) August 6, 2023
The case has drawn strong public reaction. Some, including the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), argue Zuma should return to prison for defying the court. Others point to his age—81—and health issues as reasons he should remain on medical parole.
Zuma still commands a loyal following, and analysts warn that returning him to prison could trigger protests and increase tensions in parts of the country.
The Commissioner’s decision will need to weigh legal, health, and public safety concerns.