As Zuma's legal debts mount, could the former Number 1 be entitled to legal aid?

The former president told reporters last month that he was so broke he'd been forced to sell his clothes to raise legal fees.

Former President Jacob Zuma has suffered another legal blow, losing his latest court bid to appeal a ruling forcing him to repay over R16m spent by the state on his corruption trial defence.

Tiso Blackstar reporter Karyn Maughan says with potential legal debts of up to R26m, Zuma is in a very difficult financial situation.

As we understand it at the moment his legal team is not receiving any kind of payment from him.

Karyn Maughan, Senior reporter - Tiso Blackstar

Speaking to reporters outside the Pietermaritzburg High Court last month, the former president said he was so broke he'd been forced to sell his clothes to raise legal fees.

There's also debate as to whether, in his circumstances, he would be entitled to legal aid.

Karyn Maughan, Senior reporter - Tiso Blackstar

Maughan says the real question is around what options will be left for Zuma if he fails in his permanent stay of prosecution bid.

That's a year-long trial. It's a very, very big commitment for anyone to act pro bono in.

Karyn Maughan, Senior reporter - Tiso Blackstar

Listen to the full interview below:

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