"They are lying. I know nothing about those charges," alleged July unrest instigator, former Ukhozi FM DJ Ngizwe Brian Mchunu, told the Randburg Magistrate's Court when his trial started on Tuesday.

Mchunu pleaded not guilty to the charges against him, which stems from allegations that he incited public violence, leading to the destruction of property, and convened a gathering in contravening of Covid-19 lockdown regulations after the detention of former president Jacob Zuma in July last year.

In his plea statement, Mchunu said all charges were explained to him.

"I am a radio and television personality. I'm also a poet and cultural activist. In 2020, I established my online radio.

"On 11 July 2021, I sent invitations to journalists to discuss the then-current affairs. At the time, it was during the arrest of Zuma.

"I held a media briefing at a hotel in Bryanston to show concerns over Zuma's arrest. Zuma is my neighbour [in Nkandla]. In my African culture, I regard him as my father."

Mchunu continued that he was not happy about Zuma's arrest but added: "I didn't condone any violence. I pleaded with fellow Africans to stop destroying infrastructure. I didn't incite any violence."

"I said to them, 'My brothers and sisters, I'm begging you as we are destroying our country.'"

He added: "They are lying. I know nothing about those charges. I am innocent."

He also claimed that he had permission to travel to Gauteng for work during the lockdown. The hearing continues.