In a notable setback for the much-anticipated murder trial of football star Senzo Meyiwa, proceedings scheduled for Monday have been postponed, primarily due to mounting difficulties faced by the defence attorneys in gathering and consulting key witnesses. Advocate Charles Mnisi, representing the first and third accused, revealed the logistical hurdles encountered in their attempts to prepare a solid defence, leading to the postponement of the trial until October 13.
The courtroom was abuzz with a sense of frustration as all four defence attorneys took to the stand to voice their concerns over inadequate readiness for trial. Mnisi highlighted the significant challenge of locating crucial witnesses, most of whom are scattered across various regions and proving difficult to contact. “I have been up and down, running from pillar to post and trying to locate witnesses who are scattered all over,” he lamented, underscoring the exhaustive measures he has taken, which included consultations extending into the early hours of the morning.
Despite these efforts, the advocate conceded that substantial portions of their defence preparation remained incomplete. “I cannot confidently say I am ready to begin,” he stated, further emphasising the critical nature of thorough preparation to avoid mid-trial requests for additional time.I am avoiding a situation where I ask for a month mid-trial to consult. It would be like building a house without a foundation.”
Echoing Mnisi’s sentiments, Advocate Sipho Ramosepele, who is representing the second accused, articulated similar concerns regarding the readiness of his case. He noted extensive travels across North West, Gauteng, and Mpumalanga to meet with potential witnesses, with further consultations still pending. “I am not in a position to start the defence because we have not finalised consultations with witnesses,” he said, hinting at the logistical complexity involved in preparing a viable case.
The proceedings drew an understanding response from Advocate George Baloyi, representing the state, who acknowledged the defendants’ right to adequate preparation. “The state is not opposing the request to postpone the matter,” he affirmed, allowing Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng to accede to the defence’s request, rescheduling the trial’s resumption to October 13.
As the trial is postponed, the focus remains on the historical context of this high-profile case. Meyiwa, the beloved captain of Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana, was tragically shot and killed on October 26, 2014, at the home of his girlfriend, Kelly Khumalo, in Vosloorus, Johannesburg. The personalities involved and the implications of the case continue to spark national interest, with many eager for resolution.