Judge rejects Zuma’s request to stand down

South Africa’s former President Jacob Zuma has failed in his attempt to have a judge recuse himself from the inquiry into corruption during his presidency.

Judge Raymond Zondo ruled that claims that he was biased against Mr Zuma had not been made. He also denied being “friends” with the former president.

Mr Zuma’s lawyers say they will file for a review.

The so-called State Capture inquiry is investigating claims that Mr Zuma – and his friends, the wealthy Gupta family – illegally gained access to lucrative government contracts.

All have denied the allegations of wrongdoing during Mr Zuma’s nine years as head of state; he was removed as president in 2018.