In September 2025, when conservationist Fred Daniel was awarded R306-million in damages by the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Pretoria, the ruling was feted as a ‘historic’ victory in the fight against state-sponsored corruption. But, as Daily Maverick reported in February 2026, disturbing questions have been raised by the government’s intention to appeal against the judgment. Now, in its strange reluctance to pay Daniel’s cost orders, the office of the state attorney has been tainted by the case.