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Jacob Zuma's daughter files criminal complaint against sister over mercenary recruitment
Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, has accused her sister, lawmaker Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, of deceiving 17 men into fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war under the guise of security training for their father's political party, Mkhonto Wesizwe (MK). Police confirmed an active investigation on Monday, while Zuma-Sambudla, 43, has not publicly responded to the allegations.
False promises of employment
According to Zuma-Mncube's statement, the men-aged 20 to 39-were told they would travel to Russia for bodyguard training tied to MK. Instead, they allegedly ended up in mercenary units. South Africa's government previously acknowledged receiving distress calls from 17 citizens trapped in the conflict after being lured by "lucrative contracts."
Analysts note the country's 30% unemployment rate, with youth joblessness far higher, creates fertile ground for exploitation. Zuma-Mncube cited a "moral obligation" to report her sister, while Bloomberg reported similar claims this week, including recruitment efforts in neighboring Botswana.
Legal troubles compound for Zuma-Sambudla
The allegations add to Zuma-Sambudla's ongoing trial on terrorism-related charges stemming from her 2021 social media posts during deadly unrest. Over 300 died in a week of looting and arson following Jacob Zuma's arrest for contempt of court after refusing to testify in a corruption inquiry. She denies inciting violence, calling the charges politically motivated.
Jacob Zuma, ousted in 2018 amid corruption scandals, later founded MK, which secured third place in last year's elections. Neither MK nor the Jacob Zuma Foundation has commented on the latest accusations.
Broader context: South Africa's mercenary dilemma
The case underscores vulnerabilities in a nation grappling with economic despair. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the men remain in Ukraine or Russia, or if any have returned. The BBC has reached out to MK and Zuma's foundation for further details.
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