The decision by the Supreme Court of Appeal to uphold a series of search warrants against ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma has confirmed that there is a cloud hanging over his head after all.

The decision by the Supreme Court of Appeal to uphold a series of search warrants against ANC deputy president Jacob Zuma has confirmed that there is a cloud hanging over his head after all.

Though the National Prosecuting Authorities have preferred to remain silent over their next move, their intentions are clear. While Zuma remains innocent until found guilty, yesterday's court ruling casts his political future in doubt.

Questions will inevitably again arise about Zuma's suitability to contest the ANC presidential elections next month. The only person, however, who can answer this question and decide his political career is Zuma himself.

For the rest of us watching the ANC succession race closely, the chess game has begun in earnest.