DA leader Mmusi Maimane says he has received official confirmation from the Hawks that they will investigate charges of corruption the party has brought against president Jacob Zuma.<\/p>\n
“This weekend, I received official confirmation from the Head of the Serious Commercial Crimes Unit at the Hawks, that the criminal charges I laid against Jacob Zuma last week will be investigated,” Maimane said.<\/p>\n
“I will be meeting with him within the next few days \u2013 on his request \u2013 as the investigation begins. This means we are another step closer to seeing Jacob Zuma face the consequences of his corruption.”<\/p>\n
The charges were brought against Zuma on the grounds raised in the recently published Public Protector report on state capture.<\/p>\n
While the report itself makes no findings – instead issuing an order for a judicial committee of enquiry be set up to investigate the matter further – the DA said there was enough prima facie evidence in the report to set up a case of corruption against the president.<\/p>\n
Zuma has been accused of allowing the Gupta family to exert undue influence over government, including the appointment of ministers, and being granted preferential treatment by state owned companies.<\/p>\n
Both the president and the Gupta family have repeatedly denied these claims.<\/p>\n
Maimane pointed out that the latest charges are on top of the 783 charges of fraud and corruption currently hanging over Zuma’s head.<\/p>\n
“Corruption is the enemy which steals opportunity from our people. It steals jobs, healthcare, basic services, and the change of a better life,” Maimane said.<\/p>\n
“The DA will continue to wage the war on corruption. Whether in government, or in opposition, we will use the Courts, Parliament, and the Public Protector, to ensure justice is served and those who steal the people\u2019s money are prosecuted.”<\/p>\n