Inkosi Zuma’s bail ruling delayed in third murder case
If Zuma is granted bail next week, he will continue to remain in custody until there's a decision on his appeal on the second bail application that was denied by Howick Magistrate's Court in October.
The Pietermaritzburg Regional Court has postponed a decision on Inkosi Simphiwe Zuma’s latest bail application, with judgment now expected next Tuesday.
The ruling had initially been anticipated on Tuesday following two weeks of bail proceedings, during which Zuma sought release in his third murder case involving the murder of a whistleblower Xolani Ndlovu-Ntombela.
ALSO READ | KZN traditional leader accused of multiple murders fights for bail
Ndlovu-Ntombela was shot dead in Emasosheni near Mpophomeni in November 2022 for allegedly exposing illegal land sales in the area.
Zuma, a traditional leader of the Nxamalala Traditional Authority, is facing three separate murder charges, all of which the state argues are linked to disputes over land sales.
The state has strongly opposed bail, telling the court that Zuma has failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances warranting his release and insisting that the case against him is strong.
Prosecutors have previously pointed to cellphone records, ballistic evidence and a Section 204 witness as key elements linking Zuma to the crimes.
They also raised concerns about alleged interference, including claims that Zuma communicated with co-accused while in custody and financially supported a fugitive suspect who is now state witness.
ALSO READ | Inkosi Zuma to bring new bail application over third murder charge
During the bail application, Zuma, however, maintains his innocence, arguing through his legal team that the state’s case is weak and largely relies on a single witness who stands to gain a lot.
In his bail application, Zuma also told the court that his continued incarceration threatens his businesses, assets and family, who depend on him financially.
The latest application forms part of a broader legal battle involving three high-profile killings, including the murder of uMngeni Municipality chief whip Nhlalayenza Ndlovu in December 2023 and that of Induna Qalokunye Zuma in January 2023.
ALSO READ | Deadly web: Alleged PMB hitmen and inkosi linked to mass killings
Zuma who has been behind bars since last year July when he was arrested for Ndlovu’s murder. At the time, he had just been released on a R25 000 bail in the murder of Induna Zuma.
If Zuma is granted bail next week, he will however continue to remain in custody until there’s a decision on his appeal on the second bail application that was denied by Howick Magistrate’s Court in October.
