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The daughter of previous South African Head of State Zuma has entered a not guilty plea to terror allegations at the start of her court case in the port city of Durban.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, forty-three, is being prosecuted over statements she made on digital networks in the past during violent unrest in South Africa that came after the apprehension of her parent.

A period of anarchy in various areas of the country in the summer of 2021, including plundering and arson, resulted in at least 300 individuals dead and led to damage worth an approximate $2.8bn (£2.2bn).

She has been charged of inciting this turmoil and confronts accusations of encouragement to commit terrorism and public violence.

Context of the Proceedings

The unrest were concentrated in the regions of Gauteng and KZN and were triggered by the former president's apprehension for disobeying a judicial ruling to give evidence at an inquiry into claims of graft while he was in power.

Ms Zuma-Sambudla has consistently denied the charges against her, with her attorney earlier labelling the prosecution's evidence as unsubstantiated.

She has also frequently stated the allegations against her were an bid to settle political disputes with her parent after he started his own political party and competed against the ruling party.

Endorsement and Court Representation

This was echoed by the foundation, which stated the legal matter was an "power abuse" and a "coordinated attempt" of "politically motivated and family-related persecution" against the ex-leader and his kin.

A handful of followers from her group, uMkhonto weSizwe, gathered outside the KwaZulu-Natal high court, while her parent and other party leaders participated in the court sessions inside.

Her legal team has stated that the evidence presented by the state is inadequate and does not have concrete proof for a conviction.

Main Aspects of the Trial

• Online statements from the past form the basis of the government's argument
• Deadly unrest in recent years resulted in substantial casualties and economic damage
• The individual on trial faces multiple allegations of encouragement to violence
• Court proceedings are anticipated to carry on for numerous days

The trial continues as both sides present their arguments before the court in what is projected to be a closely watched court case with major policy ramifications for South Africa.