Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, has entered a plea of not guilty to terrorism-related charges as her trial commenced in Durban. The charges stem from social media comments she allegedly made during the widespread protests in July 2021, which erupted following her father’s arrest. These protests, marked by looting, arson, and violence, resulted in over 300 deaths and caused an estimated $2.8 billion in damages. Zuma-Sambudla, 43, is accused of inciting public violence and terrorism during this period of unrest, which primarily affected Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Her legal team has consistently argued that the state’s case lacks substantial evidence, describing it as weak and politically motivated. Zuma-Sambudla has maintained that the charges are an attempt to target her father, who has since formed his own political party, uMkhonto weSizwe, and has been critical of the ruling African National Congress (ANC). The trial has drawn attention from supporters of the Zuma family, including her father and other party leaders, who were present at the KwaZulu-Natal High Court. The case highlights the ongoing political tensions in South Africa and the broader implications of social media in inciting public unrest.