The tripartite alliance yesterday condemned the recent "highhanded" raids by the Scorpions on the homes of axed deputy president Jacob Zuma.

"The alliance disapproves of the high-handed search and seizure operations at the homes of the ANC deputy president, including his lawyer's offices," the alliance secretariat said in a statement, "saying it had caused 'deep hurt and rage' among all members.

"This is inconsistent with the (National Prosecuting Authority) Act, which urges that the Scorpions must perform its duties fearlessly but with sensitivity to privacy and the dignity of the affected persons." The Scorpions raided Zuma's residence last week in search of evidence for the corruption charges against him.

NPA head Vusi Pikoli defended the heavily-armed raids yesterday, saying they were a normal operational requirement. The purpose of the raid was definitely not to embarrass or humiliate Zuma.

The alliance was also concerned about the manner in which the media appeared to have been "co-ordinated to ensure public ventilation of even the details of the search and seizure operations".

The secretariat would officially communicate these complaints and concerns to Pikoli.

"As the builders of this democracy, we will continue to support and respect institutions of democracy, even as we continue to transform them so that they reflect the values underpinning our democracy."

Senior members of the ANC, SA Communist Party, Cosatu and the SA National Civic Organisation (Sanco) met for several hours yesterday to discuss the Zuma affair.

The meeting came after Cosatu's central committee resolved to call on President Thabo Mbeki to ensure the corruption charges against Zuma are dropped. It also wants Mbeki to reinstate Zuma as his deputy.

Some Cosatu members believe there is a politically inspired conspiracy to stop Zuma from becoming the next president of the ANC because he is thought to be too close to the working class.

Cosatu formally tabled the resolutions at the meeting and it was agreed that further engagement was needed on the matter.

The meeting urged Zuma's lawyers to approach the state to cover the costs of his legal defence, since the allegations emanate from his role as a public office bearer, first as an MEC in KwaZulu-Natal and then as deputy president.

DA spokeswoman Helen Zille said this was "outrageous".

"Mr Zuma is on trial for alleged criminal offences, not for problems that arose through carrying out his official duties. It would therefore be completely wrong and improper for taxpayers to bankroll his legal fees for the trial."

The secretariat described yesterday's talks as "frank, fruitful and constructive". The point of departure was that the unity of the ANC and the alliance was of paramount importance.

"The meeting further endorsed the decisions of the ANC (national general council) on the place and role of the ANC deputy president.

"We particularly endorsed the decision that the collective and individual leaders of our movement must be respected at all times."

Since Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka has become deputy president, there have been walkouts and protests over Zuma's dismissal at gatherings she has addressed.

The alliance repeated its commitment to the rule of law, the supremacy of the constitution, the principle of presumption of innocence, and the need for state institutions to respect the rights and dignity of all citizens.

On perceptions about the Zuma saga, it was agreed to continue to assess the basis of these, which had "not helped the common unity and purpose of the movement".

"The alliance meeting agreed that the management of the fissures created by developments around the ANC deputy president is a priority, and we are committed and confident that collectively we will resolve all these."

It was agreed that another 10-a-side meeting would be held soon to discuss other matters of common interest. These included resolutions adopted at recent alliance member conferences.

Although President Thabo Mbeki was not in attendance, ANC spokesman Steyn Speed could not confirm if Zuma had attended the meeting.

With acknowledgements to Sheena Adams, Sapa and the Cape Argus.