The huffing and puffing over who believes and who does not believe that “Khwezi”, actually Fezekile Kuzwayo, was raped by Jacob Zuma misses two important points:

First, the state was unable to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Ms Kuzwayo was raped. That does not mean she was not raped; it only legally signifies that the accused was entitled to the benefit of the presumption of innocence.

Second, should an open, accountable and responsive, constitutional democracy entrust its presidency, both head of state and leader of the national executive, to a person who admits to having unprotected sex with a young woman about half his age who is to his knowledge HIV-positive? A woman who happens to be the daughter of his late wartime friend, comrade and protector as well as his vulnerable house guest, one who calls him “uncle”?

The truth about the alleged rape is known only to Jacob Zuma and has gone to her grave with Ms Kuzwayo, may she rest in dignified peace.

The truth about the second issue is universally known.

Letter written by Paul Hoffman published in the Sunday Times on 17 December 2017.