South Africa police scuffle with MPs

South African riot police clashed with opposition MPs hours after parliament absolved President Jacob Zuma over the use of some $23m (£14m) of state money to upgrade his private home in Nkandla.

They intervened after opposition MP Ngwanamakwetle Mashabela repeatedly called Mr Zuma a thief.

Four MPs were reportedly injured in the scuffle during the late-night session.

In March, the country's corruption investigator said Mr Zuma had "unduly benefited" from the improvements.

Public Protector Thuli Madonsela also accused him of unethical conduct and recommended he repay money used on non-security features in the renovation of his rural home in Nkandla, KwaZulu Natal province, which includes a swimming pool, cattle enclosure and chicken run.

But a parliamentary committee report - passed by a majority of African National Congress (ANC) MPs on Thursday - absolved Mr Zuma of any wrongdoing.

The government has always argued that the work was needed to improve security.

BBC