South African Watchdog Calls For Probe Into Influence-Peddling of Jacob Zuma's Government

Zuma protest
Protesters carry a cardboard mock up coffin as members and supporters of the South African opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), demonstrate against South African president Jacob Zuma and in support of the release of the South African Public Protector 'State Capture' report in Pretoria on November 2. The report has demanded a full investigation of alleged influence peddling in Zuma's government. GIANLUIGI GUERCIA/AFP/Getty

South Africa's former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, a constitutionally mandated anti-graft official, has recommended that a commission of inquiry headed by a judge be set up within 30 days to investigate alleged influence-peddling in government.

In a report released on Wednesday, Madonsela said the commission should present the its findings and recommendations to the president within 180 days.

The release of the report was suspended on October 14 after President Jacob Zuma's application to the High Court.

Zuma on Wednesday withdrew his court challenge to delay the report, and a judge ordered that it be released.

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