Amanda Watson news editor The Citizen obituary

By Amanda Watson

News Editor


Zuma, Thales to appear in court tomorrow

Thales may try to request a permanent stay of prosecution based on a perceived infringement of the company’s right to a fair trial.


Former president Jacob Zuma – accused number one – won’t be alone in the dock tomorrow as Thales (Pty) Limited – accused number two – will be there following the National Prosecuting Authority’s decision not to withdraw corruption charges against the company.

The NPA’s decision was announced yesterday after it had rejected Thales’ – represented in the dock by Christine Guerrier – representations.

Guerrier has been excused from appearing in court as she has to fly in from France each time. However, she will be called to represent the company when the trial eventually begins.

It is also believed that Thales’ legal team may try to request a permanent stay of prosecution based on a perceived infringement of the company’s right to a fair trial.

The move is an echo of Thales’ strategy in 2009, wherein Zuma also did the same.

Both were unsuccessful and state prosecutor Billy Downer has been waiting a long time to proceed, noting at Zuma and Guerrier’s first appearance that he was ready.

ALSO READ: Arms firm’s ex-lawyer speaks out ahead of Zuma’s day in court

For more news your way, download The Citizen’s app for iOS and Android.

Read more on these topics

corruption charges Jacob Zuma Thales

For more news your way

Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.