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The child of previous South African Head of State Zuma has pleaded not guilty to terror-linked charges at the commencement of her legal proceedings in the port city of the city of Durban.

Zuma-Sambudla, 43 years old, is being tried over comments she made on online platforms in the past during violent demonstrations in South Africa that came after the detention of her father.

A week of anarchy in multiple regions of the country in the summer of 2021, including looting and fire-setting, resulted in at least 300 killed and caused damage worth an estimated $2.8bn (£2.2bn).

Zuma-Sambudla has been alleged of inciting this turmoil and faces allegations of encouragement to commit terrorism and civil unrest.

History of the Legal Matter

The unrest were focused in the regions of Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal and came after the previous president's apprehension for disobeying a judicial ruling to give evidence at an probe into allegations of impropriety while he was in power.

Ms Zuma-Sambudla has always rejected the accusations against her, with her legal representative previously describing the state's evidence as weak.

She has also repeatedly said the allegations against her were an bid to resolve political grievances with her father after he established his own political party and ran against the African National Congress.

Backing and Case Arguments

This was echoed by the Zuma foundation, which claimed the case was an "misuse of authority" and a "organized effort" of "political and family-related harassment" against the previous head of state and his relatives.

A handful of supporters from her group, uMkhonto weSizwe, turned up outside the KwaZulu-Natal high court, while her parent and other organization officials attended the court sessions inside.

Her legal team has stated that the proof presented by the state is insufficient and does not have compelling proof for a criminal finding.

Main Aspects of the Trial

• Digital statements from 2019 form the basis of the government's case
• Deadly protests in July 2021 resulted in major deaths and economic losses
• The individual on trial faces multiple allegations of incitement to unrest
• Court hearings are anticipated to continue for several court sessions

The trial continues as both sides present their evidence before the court in what is projected to be a carefully observed court case with significant political implications for South Africa.