Publication	The Star
Date	2005-11-30
Reporter	Political Bureau
Web Link	www.thestar.co.za

ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma has returned to his rural Nkandla home in KwaZulu Natal as police continue their investigation into the rape claim against him.

After much media hype about a statement that was expected yesterday, Zuma's attorney Michael Hulley released a damp squib.

He confirmed that the police investigation into the rape claim against Zuma remained incomplete "and that a further period is warranted in order to complete such investigation under the direction of the National Prosecuting Authority".

"We acknowledge that the SAPS are the appropriate agency to deal with allegations of such a serious nature and that they should be allowed to complete their work free from interference and speculation.

"In the circumstance, Mr. Zuma out of respect for due process, will reserve any further comment on the matter until such time as the SAPS have completed their work," the statement said.

Zuma, who has been vocal in his criticism of the Scorpions and their corruption investigation against him, had only praise for the police.

The statement said he would reserving any further comment as this approach was "in keeping with the integrity with which the police have dealt with the investigation".