South African deputy president says he believes woman who accused Zuma of rape

South Africa's deputy president Cyril Ramaphosa has said he believes the woman who filed rape charges against President Jacob Zuma in 2006. 

Before Zuma became president, eleven years ago, he was tried and acquitted of raping Fezekile Kuzwayo, also known as Khwezi, when she was a guest in his home.

Ramaphosa, who is vying with Zuma for leadership of the ANC - and therefore the country - made the remarks during a radio interview on Thursday night.

Though he was acquitted, the trial damaged Zuma's reputation, not least because Khwezi - who died last year - was HIV-positive and Zuma told the court that he had taken the precaution of "showering" after unprotected sex.

Yes, I would believe her, Ramaphosa said when pressed on the rape allegations.

I know how difficult and painful it is for a woman to garner up the courage to stand up and say, 'Yes, I was raped.' It must be one of the most difficult decisions that she has to make," he said.

Ramaphosa has been Zuma's deputy since 2014.