Zuma report finds possible corruption

An investigation into claims that South Africa's president, Jacob Zuma, had an improper relationship with a wealthy family found evidence of possible of corruption at a high level.

The inquiry's report has been released following a decision by Mr Zuma to drop a court bid to block its publication.

Former anti-corruption chief Thuli Madonsela investigated allegations that he let the wealthy Gupta family wield undue influence in his government.

The Guptas were accused of trying to nominate cabinet ministers in exchange for business favours.

Both Mr Zuma and the Gupta family have denied the allegation.

As the report was published protesters demanding Mr Zuma's resignation clashed with police in Pretoria.

Police fired water canon to disperse the demonstration by supporters of the EFF (Economic Freedom Fighters) party outside Mr Zuma's main administrative offices.

Opposition groups are also rallying in South Africa's other major cities.

The president has been dogged by corruption allegations for more than a decade, but has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.

The report says the president should appoint a judicial commission of inquiry.

This means that President Zuma would still occupy the highest office in the land for many months to come, as he slowly approaches the end of his second and last term.

Report's key points:

*It says it has seen evidence which shows crimes might have been committed at a top government level

*It recommends that a commission for further inquiry, headed by a judge, be set up within 30 days to investigate the alleged influence the wealthy Gupta family had on government appointments

*The new commission should present its findings and recommendations to the president within 180 days

*The report says Mr Zuma may have broken the Prevention of Corruption Act for failing to investigate allegations that two people were offered ministerial roles by the Guptas.

- BBC