Nearly five years after South Africa's deadliest unrest in the democratic era, 62 individuals are set to face trial in the KZN High Court for charges of terrorism, sedition, and insurrection.

The accused, primarily from KwaZulu-Natal and the East Rand, are alleged to have coordinated violence via WhatsApp groups that left 354 dead during July 2021.Prosecutors claim these groups aimed to pressure Jacob Zuma's release after his jail term for contempt was overturned.Zondo's personal details were shared on WhatsApp following Zuma's sentencing in June 2021, which sparked the unrest.The trial marks a significant legal milestone as it addresses the aftermath of a period of extreme political tension.

President Cyril Ramaphosa's 'special remission' in 2023 to ease prison overcrowding reportedly benefited Zuma, raising questions about justice and accountability.

The case highlights the role of digital communication in mobilizing protests and the complexities of prosecuting such actions under South African law.