‘The law must take its own course’

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has called for legal action against Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla if allegations that she recruited 17 men to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war are substantiated.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla Recruitment Allegations

Zuma-Sambudla recently resigned from her position as a Member of Parliament amid the serious accusations. She is alleged to have recruited the men under the false pretense of providing bodyguard training for her father’s uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party, rather than for deployment in the conflict.

While Zuma-Sambudla’s sister has reportedly filed a case against her regarding the alleged recruitment, no arrests or formal charges have been made to date. Malema emphasized the importance of due process in handling the allegations.

“If she’s engaged in illegality, the law must take its own course, and she must be held accountable. Until then, let’s not be driven by excitement,” Malema commented.

Malema also cautioned against rushing to judgment, stating that the police and the Hawks should be given the space and time needed to conduct their investigations.

“I saw people opening cases against her, and I’m very conflicted because Duduzile is my friend, so maybe the SG should have responded to this one,” he added, acknowledging his personal relationship with Zuma-Sambudla.

Separately, five individuals have been arrested in connection with a similar case involving the recruitment of three young men to fight on the Russian frontlines. That case is currently being handled by the courts.