SCA interrogates Correctional Services on non-disclosure of Zuma medical condition
The Supreme Court of Appeal (SCA) has interrogated Advocate Mantlheng Mphahlele over the non-disclosure of former president Jacob Zuma’s medical condition when he was granted parole.
Mphahlele represents former Correctional Services Commissioner Arthur Fraser, who granted Zuma medical parole in 2021.
Zuma, who was detained after being found guilty of contempt by the Constitutional Court, served two out of 15 months behind bars.
Justice Nolwazi Mabindla-Boqwana put it to Mphahlele that all reports before the court say nothing about Zuma’s medical condition, which forms the basis of the parole.
“Sorry Mr Mphahlele, all three reports the decision, the reasons as well as Dr Matsoe and Mafa’s reports do not mention terminal illness and physical incapacity. So even those reports that you say have dealt with the issue they don’t categorically state it.
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“In the third question it is asked, has it (Zuma’s health) deteriorated permanently or has it reached an irreversible state? The answer is not given as a yes or a no but an explanation, deteriorated significantly? So, there’s no specific answer to that question.”
Two reports by Zuma’s medical team have made a recommendation for him to be released on parole.
This is despite no recommendation from the medical advisory board.
Zuma’s appeal case over his medical parole continues in Bloemfontein with Advocate Dali Mpofu, the Helen Suzman Foundation, and the Democratic Alliance (DA) expected to make their submissions.
