Former president of South Africa Jacob Zuma has sacked Daniel Mantsha, his lawyer of two years, and will be heading to his long-awaited corruption trial with Mabuza Attorneys, the JG Zuma Foundation said on Sunday.

“The JG Zuma Foundation announces that former president Jacob Zuma has decided to terminate the mandate of his attorney of record, Daniel Mantsha of Lugisani Mantsha Attorneys, with immediate effect.”

Mantsha had represented Zuma since 2018, the foundation said. “During this period, he has worked very hard, with dedication to ensure that the defence team succeeds in its work. We would like to thank him for his efforts thus far and wish him well in his future endeavours.

“Former president Zuma has unfortunately come to the conclusion that it is in his best interests to part ways with Mr Mantsha at this stage so that he can focus more on the preparation for the trial.”

Mantsha would be replaced by Mabuza Attorneys, who would be responsible for all preparation ahead of Zuma’s much-awaited trial.