President Jacob Zuma will face a titanic legal battle next week when he fights to keep secret the elusive spy tapes that got him off the hook on corruption charges - as well as potentially devastating financial records.
In a hearing that could determine Zuma's future as president, the Supreme Court of Appeal will have to decide whether the National Prosecuting Authority's 2009 decision to drop corruption charges was legally sound and not politically induced.
In what could turn out to be a landmark case, the DA has turned to the court, arguing that then acting national director of public prosecutions Mokotedi Mpshe's decision to drop the charges against Zuma was unconstitutional and invalid.
But, in his court papers, Zuma questions the DA's intentions and motives.
Zuma was let off the hook on corruption charges relating to alleged bribes he received after he made presentations to the National Prosecuting Authority, including the controversial spy tapes and other documents.
The court at this stage has to rule only on whether the DA has legal standing to bring the case to court and whether it should have access to the records.
However, vehemently arguing for the court to dismiss the matter when it comes before five judges next Wednesday, Zuma says the case is much bigger than just his personal financial affairs - it could be a national embarrassment.
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