Speaking shortly after graft charges against him were dropped in the High Court in Durban, Zuma described this as a "desperate act".
"It's an indication ... of a desperate act that they charged first and looked for evidence later... I had to turn to the courts," Zuma told a media briefing.
Something clearly needed to be done to make the criminal justice system more effective to correct abuses and ensure human rights were not violated, he said.
He stressed that such institutions should not be so powerful that abuses could not be addressed.
Zuma said something was seriously wrong in the NPA and that the executives needed to take action against the former Directorate of Special Operations' (DSO) Leonard McCarthy.
He also called for government to conduct a review of the DSO and the manner in which it operated.
"My conscience is clear. I have not committed any crimes against the state or people of South Africa," said Zuma.
"I sought legal remedies because I thought my rights were being violated... It was highly suspicious."
He said he was happy that he was vindicated.
The presidential front-runner said the "vindictive episode" had provided lessons for everyone.
He said the African National Congress's task was now to look into the criminal justice system and the judiciary to ensure that victims were protected.
He said it was worrying that there were new trends that political parties were interfering in the legal system to secure votes.
"They are playing a mischievous game."
Zuma said he would strive for a public service that was for the people and not for individuals.
He said the NPA had themselves admitted there had been manipulations and an abuse of power. Zuma stressed that this case did not spark off violence even though there were tensions.
He further accused some media of being actively involved in a conspiracy against him.
This was the time for unity and healing, he said."I wouldn't want any individuals to go through what I went through."
He said he wanted to put this case behind him and focus on the ANC's five priorities, highlighted in its election manifesto.
On Monday the National Prosecuting Authority withdrew corruption charges against Zuma saying the decision was based on flaws in the prosecution's own process.
A video of a boy being forced by his parents to run almost naked in the snow has sparked an uproar.
Cosatu met with the Public Protector to discuss its numerous complaints against Premier Helen Zille.
Marine ruins have been discovered by builders working at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.
