Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng. (Mario van der Waal/Gallo Images)
The trial for the murder of football player Senzo Meyiwa resumed on Monday, with the new presiding judge, Ratha Mokgoatlheng, resetting the proceedings and nullifying those that occurred before the last postponement of the case last month.
The trial was postponed after the previous judge, Tshifhiwa Maumela, fell ill and was later suspended for misconduct for not delivering judgments within a reasonable period.
Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Ntanzi, Mthobisi Ncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa and Fisokuhle Ntuli are on trial for the footballer’s murder. The five face charges of premeditated murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, illegal possession of a firearm and the illegal possession of ammunition.
State prosecutor George Baloyi asked that the court postpone proceedings to Tuesday.
“We have agreed that the matter should stand down until tomorrow. There are a few aspects that my colleagues would like to iron out regarding the defence with the legal aid board,” he said.
Defence lawyers said they had received instructions from the legal aid board about financial documents that needed to be completed by the accused before the trial commences.
Baloyi said he and the defence needed to hold a pre-trial conference regarding the restarting of the proceedings.
The trial continues on Tuesday at 10am.