Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma, has resigned from her position as a Member of Parliament following serious allegations surrounding her involvement in recruiting South Africans to fight for Russia in the ongoing Ukraine war.
Reports suggest that Zuma-Sambudla tricked 17 men into believing they were heading to Russia for legitimate training, only for them to find themselves in the conflict as mercenaries. In her affidavit, she stated, I thought they were going for lawful training, and expressed her intention to facilitate the safe return of those caught in the conflict zone, emphasizing that the decision to resign was her own.
The controversy has sparked outrage, particularly from family members of the men who claim they were misled and are now trapped in the war-torn Donbas region of Ukraine. Xolani, the brother of one of the men, has communicated the family's distress, seeking accountability and safe transport home for his brother and others caught in this precarious situation.
In audio messages shared with the BBC, Xolani’s brother Sipho painted a grim picture of life on the front lines, describing fear and uncertainty among the group. He claimed they were promised jobs but ended up on the battlefield fighting under Russian command.
Zuma-Sambudla denied any ill intentions. Her resignation is interpreted by some family members as an attempt to salvage her father's party's reputation rather than a sincere effort to assist the men involved. The Hawks, South Africa's elite police unit, are now investigating the matter for potential human trafficking or recruitment violations.
With this serious issue unfolding, the former MP affirms, I would not knowingly expose my family or others to harm, while also admitting to being a victim of deception herself.
The ongoing situation highlights the dangers associated with recruitment practices in conflict zones and the broader implications for both South African citizens and international law.
