World Bulletin / News Desk

South African President Jacob Zuma moved on Thursday to block a watchdog's report into graft allegations against him, in his latest legal bid to protect his battered reputation.

Public Protector Thuli Madonsela had been expected to release on Friday her report into allegations that Zuma let a wealthy business family have undue influence over government and were even able to choose ministers.

"There is an application for an urgent interdict," Zuma's spokesman Bongani Ngqulunga told AFP without giving further details.

Madonsela's spokesman said the court application was due to be heard Tuesday.

Madonsela, who is celebrated in South Africa for her diligent work unearthing official misconduct, stands down on Saturday after completing her seven-year term in office.

In 2014, she dealt a major blow to Zuma in a report that found he had "unduly benefited" from the refurbishment of his Nkandla rural home -- valued in 2014 at 216 million rand (then $24 million).

Zuma fought the case until being berated by the Constitutional Court and ordered to pay back $500,000 (450,000 euros) of money that had been spent on upgrades including a chicken coop, and a swimming pool that was described as a fire-fighting precaution.