afrol News, 22 October - A South African judge has today cleared way for prosecutors to appeal against a ruling canceling corruption charges against ruling African National Congress (ANC) president Jacob Zuma.

Last month, Judge Christopher Nicholson discharged charges against Mr Zuma and suggested his rival, ex-president Thabo Mbeki, had meddled with case.

His ruling opened way for governing ANC party to eventually do away with Mr Mbeki as country president.

Mr Zuma has meanwhile denied all charges laid against him, which comprise graft, money laundering and racketeering.

"I have no difficulty in granting leave on basis that I believe there are reasonable prospects of success on appeal," Justice Nicholson was quoted as saying.

In his ruling last month, he had noted prosecution should have consulted Mr Zuma before renewing charges, originally put on hold two years ago.

Move according to analyst was viewed as a legal setback for Mr Zuma, who is favourite to become president after elections next year.

Mr Zuma was re-charged in connection with 1999 arms deal last December, shortly after he had beaten Mr Mbeki in a bitter fight to lead ANC party.

Mr Mbeki strongly denies that he interfered in prosecution of party leader and has thus appealed against that part of ruling.

Former president is also adamant that justice Nicholson's ruling has cost him his job.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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