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The daughter of ex- South African Head of State Zuma has pleaded not guilty to terrorism-related charges at the commencement of her trial in the coastal city of Durban.

Zuma-Sambudla, 43, is being tried over remarks she posted on digital networks in the past during violent demonstrations in South Africa that came after the apprehension of her parent.

A seven-day period of disorder in several parts of the country in mid-2021, including plundering and arson, left at least 300 individuals dead and resulted in damage worth an approximate $2.8bn (2.2 billion pounds).

She has been accused of fuelling this unrest and is charged with charges of encouragement to commit terror acts and public violence.

Background of the Legal Matter

The unrest were focused in the regions of the Gauteng province and KZN and followed the ex-leader's detention for ignoring a court order to give evidence at an inquiry into accusations of impropriety while he was holding office.

She has consistently rejected the charges against her, with her attorney previously labelling the state's case as unsubstantiated.

She has also consistently said the allegations against her were an bid to settle political scores with her dad after he established his own political party and ran against the ANC.

Support and Legal Defense

This was supported by the Jacob Zuma foundation, which stated the legal matter was an "misuse of authority" and a "systematic campaign" of "political and family-related harassment" against the previous head of state and his kin.

A small number of backers from her group, the political party, gathered outside the provincial high court, while her parent and other party leaders participated in the hearings inside.

Her legal team has stated that the proof presented by government lawyers is inadequate and fails to provide concrete evidence for a conviction.

Key Points of the Trial

• Social media posts from four years ago form the basis of the government's evidence
• Deadly protests in recent years resulted in major fatalities and monetary damage
• The individual on trial is charged with multiple allegations of incitement to violence
• Legal hearings are projected to carry on for multiple days

The trial continues as all parties present their evidence before the judicial authority in what is projected to be a closely watched legal battle with major policy consequences for South Africa.