In brief
Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, a member of parliament in South Africa and daughter of ex-President Jacob Zuma, has stepped down amidst allegations that she duped 17 men into fighting for Russia in Ukraine. The men reportedly believed they were being recruited for lawful training. Families of those involved are demanding accountability and safe returns, as investigations into possible human trafficking and illegal recruitment are underway.
The daughter of former South African President Jacob Zuma has resigned as an MP following allegations that she tricked 17 men to fight for Russia as mercenaries in Ukraine. Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, who became a member of parliament for the main opposition party uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) last year, has said in an affidavit that she thought the men were going to Russia for 'lawful' training.MK says it was her decision to resign as she wants to focus her efforts on ensuring the return of those trapped in Ukraine's war-torn Donbas region.The brother of one of the men, who has been sending desperate voices notes about his situation, has told the BBC the family wants accountability and his safe return. Things you see in the movies, we're seeing it live, he said in one of the messages.Sipho, who is currently trapped in Ukraine, stated that he was recruited by two people including Zuma-Sambudla, believing he would receive training as a bodyguard. Family members express concern for his safety, with one noting how they can go days without communication.Zuma-Sambudla, who filed an affidavit with police, asserts she did not knowingly mislead anyone, maintaining she is a victim of manipulation herself. Despite her resignation, the families insist that accountability is necessary for the alleged deception that led the men to become involved in the conflict. South African authorities are investigating the allegations as possible human trafficking and illegal recruitment, while Zuma-Sambudla has stated her focus remains on recovering the young men caught in the conflict.
