Jacob Zuma's Disciplinary Hearing Postponed Amidst Political Turmoil

Former South African President Jacob Zuma's disciplinary hearing with the African National Congress was delayed on Wednesday for further arguments. Zuma faces possible expulsion for campaigning against the ANC as head of a new political party in the upcoming national elections in May.

Zuma, who has a complex history with the ANC dating back to the late 1950s, was absent from the virtual hearing, opting to be represented by an ANC official as permitted by the party's constitution. His MK Party has demanded the hearing be conducted in person and open to the public. The ANC postponed proceedings to next Tuesday after rejecting these demands.

Amid ongoing legal troubles and a feud with current President Cyril Ramaphosa, Zuma announced in December his intent to lead the MK Party in the May elections. His split from the ANC was formalized with a suspension in January. Despite being labeled a destabilizing figure, Zuma's MK Party garnered a significant share of the vote, contributing to the ANC losing its majority in Parliament.

(With inputs from agencies.)