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The daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma has entered a not guilty plea to terror-linked charges at the start of her trial in the coastal city of Durban.

Zuma-Sambudla, 43 years old, is being prosecuted over statements she posted on online platforms in the past during fatal demonstrations in South Africa that followed the apprehension of her father.

A period of anarchy in multiple regions of the country in the summer of 2021, including looting and arson, caused at least three hundred dead and resulted in damage worth an approximate $2.8 billion (£2.2bn).

Zuma-Sambudla has been accused of fuelling this turmoil and is charged with allegations of provocation to commit terrorism and public disorder.

History of the Proceedings

The unrest were concentrated in the areas of Gauteng region and KZN and followed the previous president's detention for disobeying a court order to testify at an probe into claims of corruption while he was in power.

Ms Zuma-Sambudla has repeatedly rejected the allegations against her, with her legal representative in the past calling the state's case as unsubstantiated.

She has also repeatedly stated the allegations against her were an effort to resolve political grievances with her parent after he founded his own political organization and competed against the ruling party.

Endorsement and Court Representation

This was supported by the foundation, which said the case 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 political organization, her party, gathered outside the judicial building, while her father and other organization officials participated in the proceedings inside.

Her legal team has stated that the testimony presented by the state is inadequate and fails to provide compelling evidence for a conviction.

Key Points of the Trial

• Online posts from 2019 form the foundation of the government's argument
• Fatal demonstrations in July 2021 resulted in major deaths and monetary destruction
• The defendant is charged with multiple allegations of encouragement to public disorder
• Court hearings are anticipated to continue for several court sessions

The court case continues as all parties present their cases before the court in what is anticipated to be a highly monitored court case with major politically charged consequences for South Africa.