Zuma’s daughter on trial over July 2021 violence

The KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court in Durban will hear the case of State v Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla from 10 to 21 November 2025, the Office of the Chief Justice announced on Monday.

Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, faces charges linked to alleged involvement in unrest and acts of public violence in July 2021. While the exact details of the charges remain under seal ahead of the trial, the matter is seen as part of ongoing investigations into events that shook parts of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal during that period.

The July 2021 unrest followed the imprisonment of former President Jacob Zuma, triggering widespread demonstrations and violent incidents across several provinces. Courts have since been handling multiple related cases, with authorities pursuing individuals alleged to have instigated, organized, or participated in acts of public violence.

The Office of the Chief Justice emphasised that the judiciary remains committed to ensuring that trials are conducted fairly and transparently. “The South African Judiciary continues to uphold the rule of law by providing a fair platform for all matters before the courts, regardless of the profile of the accused,” the office said in a statement.

This trial follows a series of cases connected to the July 2021 unrest. On Monday, four individuals allegedly involved in instigating the unrest appeared before the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court. Bogadi Maphisa 55, Jacquiline Busisiwe Skhosana 48, Bekuyise Thilothemba Cebekulu 58, and Nkateko Jimmy Sibiya 44, are charged with conspiracy to commit public violence and two counts of incitement to commit public violence.

The charges stem from allegations that between 8 and 15 July 2021, the accused conspired and encouraged acts of public violence intended to pressure the state to release former President Zuma from prison.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the accused allegedly used WhatsApp groups to plan and promote actions such as road blockades, burning of infrastructure, destruction of businesses and supply chains, and other forms of public violence.

They are also alleged to have circulated messages, videos, emojis, and voice notes encouraging these activities. All four were granted bail of R1 500 each, and their matter has been postponed to 16 January 2026 for pre-trial proceedings.

Phindi Mjonondwane, NPA Regional Spokesperson for Gauteng, said the authority remains committed to prosecuting individuals who engage in acts that undermine public order and safety. “The NPA reaffirms its commitment to upholding the rule of law and prosecuting individuals who engage in acts of violence and destruction,” Mjonondwane said.

Legal analysts note that the Zuma-Sambudla trial could be a high-profile courtroom event given her connection to the former president and the significance of the 2021 unrest. Observers expect that the proceedings will be closely watched both nationally and internationally.

The Durban High Court trial of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla will run for nearly two weeks, with legal teams for both the state and defence expected to present extensive evidence and witness testimony before the court reaches its verdict.