The state's legal bill for former deputy president Jacob Zuma - now ANC President - totals almost R10-million so far, according to the Presidency.
"An amount of R9 676 176,21 has to date been paid in respect of legal costs in the corruption charges against the former deputy president," Minister in the Presidency Essop Pahad said in written reply to a parliamentary question by Independent Democrats leader Patricia de Lille.
Since the matter was struck off the roll in September 2007, no further request for payment for the Zuma legal team had been made over and above this figure.
Asked what further sums the state expected to pay in this regard, Pahad said this was difficult to estimate in view of the fact that the trial had not yet started and Zuma's anticipated application to stay the proceedings.
"It is difficult to determine the duration of the trial considering the postponements and other interlocutory proceedings which might arise."
The fee might also be influenced by the size of the legal team representing him in court, Pahad said.
In written reply to another question - by Len Joubert of the Democratic Alliance - Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Brigitte Mabandla confirmed the matter.
"The legal representation in the corruption matter is provided as the State has a direct interest in the matter as it is alleged that the charges relate to the strategic arms procurement process entered into by the state.
As a result of the direct interest of the state in the matter, the Presidency agreed to pay the cost of the legal representation in that matter subject to the condition that, in the event of a conviction in the case, the funds expended on the legal representation will be recovered from the accused," she said. - Sapa
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