Legal analyst Melusi Kulu says the latest court ruling against former President Jacob Zuma represents a major shift in how South Africa deals with the unlawful use of public funds for personal legal battles.
On Thursday, Judge Anthony Millar ordered Zuma to repay R29 million within 60 days or risk having his assets seized. The judgment also confirmed that a presidential pension can be legally attached, as it is governed by the Public Office Bearers Act rather than the Pension Funds Act.
Kulu says the ruling establishes a clear precedent for holding public officials accountable when taxpayer money is misused.
“Because of the nature of the case, it is precedent-setting. It clarifies what happens when a public official’s pension is subject to attachment. The former president’s pension is not shielded by the Pension Funds Act, and the Public Office Bearers Act allows for attachment in circumstances like these,” he explained.
Legal observers say the decision could have far-reaching implications for future cases involving state-funded legal expenses.