Oral replies by President Jacob Zuma in National Assembly, March 20 2013

2. The Leader of the Opposition (DA) to ask the President of the Republic:

Whether he was informed of the upgrades at his private home in Nkandla in November 2010; if so, (a) on what date and (b) by what means?

REPLY:

The Zuma Family has effected various renovations to the family residence over a period. In the recent past and more particularly during the early part of 2008, the family commissioned certain improvements to the residences for its own account.

Nobody's permission was necessary in this regard insofar as it related to an upgrade of a private residence.This right extends to all citizens of the Republic.

I was accordingly aware of these renovations to the extent that it relates to my family residence which was self-funded. It remains a private family matter.

Naturally, I was informed that improvements needed to be made at the family residence to enhance the security of the Head of State.

The nature and form of the improvements was decided upon by the relevant officials through their departments. As already indicated such information would not include details on the specifics of what would be done, by whom and at what cost.

I thank you.

Issued by The Presidency, March 20 2013

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