Controversy Surrounds Ex-President's Daughter Following Resignation Over Ukraine Allegations

Thu Dec 04 2025 21:05:47 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, resigns amid reports of misleading South Africans into fighting for Russia in Ukraine.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, a member of South Africa's parliament and daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, has resigned amidst allegations that she deceived 17 men into participating as mercenaries in the Ukraine conflict for Russia. While she claims her intentions were misrepresented and that she thought they were receiving lawful training, the families of the alleged victims seek accountability and safe return. The matter is being investigated by South Africa's elite police unit for potential illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, has resigned as a Member of Parliament following allegations that she misled 17 men into fighting for Russia as mercenaries in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Since her election as a member of the main opposition party, uMkhonto weSizwe (MK), in 2024, Zuma-Sambudla has come under scrutiny for allegedly deceiving the men into believing they were traveling to Russia for legitimate training. In her statements, she expressed that her intentions were misunderstood, claiming she believed in their lawful purposes.

MK has confirmed Zuma-Sambudla's decision to resign, emphasizing her focus on ensuring the safe return of those trapped in the war-torn regions of Ukraine.

As the family of one of the men has vocalized concerns for his safety, reports detail desperate situations as they seek accountability from those involved in the recruitment process. A witness known as Sipho described to the BBC the harrowing experiences faced by those taken to Ukraine.

They reported being misled regarding the conditions they would face, and now fear for their lives as they find themselves in a war zone amid conflict escalations.

Zuma-Sambudla has denied any misconduct, claiming she herself was a victim of manipulation in a situation that has shocked and distressed her deeply. She filed an affidavit with the police in the wake of her half-sister's accusations, asserting she had no intention of placing anyone in harm's way.

Investigations are ongoing by South Africa's law enforcement agencies into allegations of illegal recruitment, potential human trafficking, and the circumstances surrounding the deployment of South African citizens to fight in foreign conflicts.

As the situation unfolds, more information on the men's safety and the resolutions to their plight is awaited, highlighting the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape.

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