New South Africa leader may face trial

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- South Africa's chief prosecutor said Thursday he has evidence to bring corruption charges against Jacob Zuma, the new head of the African National Congress.

Mokotedi Mpshe, the acting head of the National Prosecuting Authority, announced that Zuma could soon be charged with corruption in connection with a multibillion-dollar arms deal.

"The investigation is complete. All that we are doing now is to tie the loose ends," he told Johannesburg's Radio 702, The Financial Times reported.

"The investigation, with the evidence we have now, points to a case that can be taken to court," Mpshe said.

Asked about the charges, Zuma said, "I will cross that bridge when I get there."

Corruption charges against Zuma were dropped last year when his trial collapsed on a technicality. Since that time, prosecutors have said they are preparing to charge him again, the newspaper reported.