The trial of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla (former MK Party MP and daughter of ex-President Jacob Zuma) continued today, Tuesday 14 April 2026, in the Durban High Court (KwaZulu-Natal Division). She faces charges of incitement to commit terrorism and incitement to commit public violence, linked to her social media posts during the deadly July 2021 unrest.
Background
The July 2021 unrest erupted after Jacob Zuma’s imprisonment for contempt of court. It led to widespread looting, violence, and over 300 deaths, mainly in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, with massive economic damage. Prosecutors allege Zuma-Sambudla’s online activity (tweets and posts) helped fuel the chaos. She has pleaded not guilty, and her defence argues the posts do not amount to incitement.
The trial started in November 2025, with social media experts among the state’s witnesses. It has proceeded intermittently, including sessions in late 2025 and now resuming in April 2026.
Today’s Proceedings (14 April 2026)
- Social media expert Emma Sadleir returned to the witness stand. She was cross-examined after previously testifying that she recommended charges against Zuma-Sambudla (including incitement to terrorism, public violence, sedition, and Cybercrimes Act violations) based on analysis of her posts. The defence reportedly challenged the credibility of cyber-security or social media analysis presented by the state.
- The state continued leading evidence focused on the content, timing, and alleged impact of her tweets before and during the unrest.
- A new witness was expected to testify later in the day.
Outcome
The case was postponed to 13 August 2026. Zuma-Sambudla’s legal team indicated they want a Hawks colonel to testify.
Legal observers have noted the state faces a high burden of proof, as this is one of the first South African cases relying heavily on social media posts for terrorism-related incitement charges. The matter raises broader questions about free speech, online accountability, and the link between posts and real-world violence.
