Durban - Throngs of backers of former president Jacob Zuma are expected to converge for a prayer at his home in Nkandla, in KwaZulu-Natal, today.
The prayer which was organised by among other people, Bishop Vusi Dube, is seen as a show of support as Zuma continues with his court battles.
“There is a general perception in some quarters that comrade Zuma’s support is waning, but we will be there to demonstrate that we are fully behind him,” said an ANC member from eThekwini region.
The member also indicated that eThekwini region chairperson Zandile Gumede would also attend.
ANC KwaZulu-Natal spokesperson Nhlakanipho Ntombela said they were aware of the prayer meeting, but stressed that it was not organised by the ruling party in the province.
“We have seen posters on social media and the best source of information on the matter is the Musa Dladla region,” said Ntombela.
The SA National Civics Organisation youth co-ordinator Thulani Gamede said the gathering was a sign of their continued support for a man who they believed had been victimised by the country’s judiciary.
“We have been consistent in saying that comrade Zuma has been harshly dealt with in many quarters.”
It is expected that ANC members, and particularly the radical economic transformation grouping, will come out in full force in the event.
Attempts to get comment from the Jacob Zuma Foundation spokesperson Mzwanele Manyi were unsuccessful.
Last month, Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) Judge President Mandisa Maya turned down Zuma’s reconsideration application.
Zuma asked Judge Maya to reconsider the SCA’s dismissal of his special pleas – all dealing with his attempt to force prosecutor Billy Downer to recuse himself from his corruption trial.
Zuma has accused Downer of being biased and “disseminating” confidential information about his medical condition to the media.
Zuma approached the SCA after Pietermaritzburg High Court Judge Piet Koen dismissed the special plea matter.
The Jacob Zuma Foundation said the former president was consulting with his legal team about the matter.
The corruption trial is expected back in the high court on August 1.
THE MERCURY