In a significant development, a high court judge in South Africa has dismissed an application by former President Jacob Zuma to terminate his high-profile graft trial. Zuma, along with French company Thales, faces a multitude of charges, including corruption, money-laundering, and racketeering, all stemming from a contentious 1999 multibillion rand arms deal. The defendants had sought to have the charges dropped, citing repeated delays and the death of two key witnesses, which they claimed had compromised their right to a fair trial.

The judge, however, did not buy into their argument, instead suggesting that the state had made a compelling case that the delays were largely the result of Zuma’s own actions, with Thales playing a lesser role. This case has been marred by numerous postponements, legal challenges, and procedural disputes since the initial charges were filed over a decade ago. Despite the state declaring its readiness to proceed with the trial four years ago, the case has been bogged down by Zuma’s repeated attempts to have key prosecutor Billy Downer removed, citing concerns over his independence and impartiality.

Zuma’s involvement in the arms deal dates back to his time as deputy president, and the charges against him include fraud and tax evasion linked to his dealings with his former financial advisor, Schabir Shaik. Shaik was found guilty in 2005 of corruption and fraud, with the presiding judge noting at the time that the evidence of a corrupt relationship between Shaik and Zuma was “overwhelming.” The latest development in the case sees the trial postponed until December 4, at which point the state will push for the trial to proceed, regardless of any potential appeals from either Zuma or Thales.

This case is a seminal moment in South Africa’s ongoing battle against corruption, with many viewing it as a test of the country’s judicial system and its ability to hold those in power accountable. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, both domestically and internationally, as it has significant implications for the rule of law and the fight against corruption in South Africa. As the case prepares to move forward, it remains to be seen how the legal teams for Zuma and Thales will respond to the latest setback and what strategies they will employ as they seek to defend their clients against the serious allegations leveled against them.