Zuma rape trial to get underway on Monday

The long awaited rape trial of former deputy president Jacob Zuma is set to begin with what can be described as great fanfare in Johannesburg on Monday. Zuma is alleged to have raped a family friend at his home in Johannesburg in November after she refused his offer of a massage. Thousands of Zuma supporters have indicated that they will be there wearing T-shirts and displaying bumper stickers that clearly show support for Zuma. On the other hand, supporters of the alleged rape victim have asked her supporters to wear purple ribbons Monday. Both the State and the defence have indicated that they are ready to proceed but experts say that with a trial of this magnitude any little hitch could cause more delays.
Judge Willem van der Merwe will preside.