Treasury to determine Jacob Zuma's Nkandla payment
The Constitutional Court on Thursday ruled that Public Protector’s findings on non security upgrades at President Jacob Zuma’s Nkandla private residence were binding.
The National Treasury was instructed to determine an amount to be paid for the non-security upgrades.
Chef Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng delivered the much anticipated judgement to an over flowing public gallery.
“Remedial action taken by the public protector against President Jacob Zuma is binding, the failure by the president to comply with remedial action taken against him by the public protector is inconsistent with Section 83 of the Constitution,” said Mogoeng.
“The treasury is instructed to determine the reasonable costs that are the visitor’s centre, the cattle kraal, amphitheater and the chicken run and the swimming pool, which ought to be paid personally by the president.”
The Treasury was instructed to report back on its determination within 60 days of the judgement.
Mogoeng was scathing towards the National Assembly, saying to it failed to hold the President accountable and ensure compliance with remedial action set out by Madonsela.
The court also instructed Zuma to reprimand MPs involved in the Nkandla debacle, which saw him being absolved from complying with the report or any wrongdoing.
“This is inconsistent with the Constitution, and it is invalid and set aside.”
Mogoeng added that Zuma failed in his duty to protect Madonsela’s office and defend the country’s constitution.