A South African judge has dismissed former president Jacob Zuma and French firm Thales’ attempt to stop their long-running arms deal corruption trial, marking a key legal setback for both defendants in a case that has spanned decades.
Judge Nkosinathi Chili ruled in the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Tuesday that neither Zuma nor Thales had met the threshold to justify halting prosecution, rejecting their claims of trial prejudice due to deceased witnesses.
While both parties indicated they might appeal the ruling, further legal proceedings –including potential trial dates – will be determined in December 2025, with actual hearings likely taking place only in the second half of 2026.
Zuma and Thales face corruption, fraud and money laundering charges linked to South Africa’s 1999 arms procurement deal in which Thales allegedly paid bribes to Zuma – then serving as deputy president – to shield itself from prosecution.
The case has been marred by delays, with Zuma previously challenging the involvement of lead prosecutor Billy Downer, an application rejected by the courts.
Thales had argued that key witnesses, including its former executives Pierre Moynot and Alain Thetard, had passed away, making it impossible to challenge evidence.
Zuma aligned his application with Thales, contending that if the French firm could no longer defend itself properly, he should also be acquitted.
JN/APA