Trial To Start Afresh With A new Judge
The trial of the five men accused of murdering former Bafana Bafana captain, Senzo Meyiwa, resumed on Monday, at the North Gauteng High Court in Tshwane.
A new judge, Ratha Mokgoatlheng, has returned from retirement to oversee the Meyiwa trial.
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The trial was previously postponed on June 12 because the original presiding judge, Tshifhiwa Maumela, was unavailable due to illness.
Senzo Meyiwa was fatally shot during an alleged failed robbery at the home of his then-girlfriend and mother of his child, singer Kelly Khumalo, in Vosloorus on 26th October, 2014.
The defendants currently on trial for his murder are Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa, and Sifisokuhle Nkani Ntuli.
They are facing charges of premeditated murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstances, possession of firearms without a license, and possession of ammunition.
The trial was postponed until Tuesday, July 18, due to a pre-trial conference that took place on Monday, July 17.
Judge Mokgoatlheng explained the accused’s rights according to Section 35 of the Criminal Procedure Act and informed them that the trial was starting over again.
He emphasized that they needed to have their rights explained again since it was a new trial, and they would need to enter their pleas before the trial commenced.
State prosecutor George Baloyi requested the judge to adjourn the matter until the following day due to legal aid issues and the pre-trial conference.
Meanwhile, Mzuvele Cele, the chairman of the South African Mass Movement, was present in court to offer support to the Meyiwa family.
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He expressed their belief that the delays were causing significant distress to Senzo Meyiwa’s family and emphasized their presence to provide sympathy and support.
Cele stated that they wanted to see the justice system take its course and hoped for a swift resolution to the case.
