Several gunshots have rung out just metres away from the home of former President Jacob Zuma at Nkandla in northern KwaZulu-Natal.
This has compromised the safety for some there as the situation grows tense. A number of Mkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans have now formed a human shield in front of the gates of Zuma’s home.
The MKMVA members tried to ascertain the direction of the gunshots but could not find the source.
It is now clear that some of the Zuma supporters are armed.
Zuma’s son Edward has pleaded with those who are outside the Nkandla home to be disciplined. Edward says that is a request coming from Zuma’s family.
#sabcnews #sabckzn And several gunshots fired into the air. Clearly some people here in Nkandla are armed. While taking this video others wanted me to stop and threw stones at me. pic.twitter.com/lUhZwUvSjs
— Nonkululeko Hlophe (@Leko3) July 4, 2021
Two police officers are in the vicinity, monitoring the situation.
#sabcnews #sabckzn Two officers in uniform monitoring the situation outside former president Jacob Zuma's home in Nkandla. pic.twitter.com/YJdcBCqdHP
— Nonkululeko Hlophe (@Leko3) July 4, 2021
Zuma’s son, Duduzane, has made his first appearance joining pro-Zuma supporters toyi-toying outside the Nkandla home.
The controversial businessman and strong supporter of his father says Zuma is in good and positive spirits.
The former President was on Sunday expected to hand himself over to start serving his 15-month contempt of court sentence.
He has since launched two court bids to avoid going to jail and it is unlikely that he will be handing himself over.
Most of Zuma’s family and extended family have descended on Nkandla ahead of his address to his supporters expected on Sunday at 6pm.
A jovial Duduzane was seen taking selfies and clutching the ANC flag.
#sabcnews #sabckzn In Pictures activities outside the former president Jacob Zuma's home in Nkandla. pic.twitter.com/T7r3D6gNib
— Nonkululeko Hlophe (@Leko3) July 4, 2021
Meanwhile, a convoy of vehicles with ANC members is moving along the N2 from Durban and some parts of the province towards Nkandla to offer support to Zuma.
The ANC members dressed in party regalia met at Umvoti toll Plaza earlier where they were singing struggle and pro-Zuma songs.
The motorcade has taken on a stop-and-go approach that is leading to traffic congestion along the N2.
The supporters say they are against the arrest of former President Zuma.
The motorcade is expected to reach Nkandla by Sunday afternoon, just a few hours ahead of Zuma’s scheduled address to his supporters at 6pm this evening.
Additional reporting by Fanele Mhlongo
